Like Ella in 1984, Wright’s adventurous mindset has been crucial in the two Wallabies’ wins so far, and like Ella, Wright was a Randwick junior who played in the Galloping Greens’ district.
And, also like the ex-Wallaby star, Wright grew up playing rugby league for La Perouse United – deep in Ella territory.
“He is one of the true great Wallabies. I have had a little bit to do with Mark, just in Classic Wallabies conversations, in passing around the eastern suburbs,” Wright said, when the try-scoring feat was pointed out. “Obviously playing for Randwick, I was a Randwick junior as well, so we’ve crossed paths a number of times. He is a very, very lovely fella.”
Wright then quickly added he wasn’t thinking about such a try-scoring feat.
The 1984 grand slam is the stuff of romantic legend for older Aussie fans but many young Wallabies players have, at best, only recently grown aware of it.
When asked about the ’84 grand slam earlier on tour, one Wallaby politely answered he didn’t know much, and that’s understandable given it was 40 years ago. James Slipper is the only current Wallabies player born in the 1980s, and even that was 1989. Nine were born in the year 2000 or later.
The realistic expectation of a grand slam repeat also wasn’t high on the agenda given the tough first fixture in London, but then Max Jorgensen’s try threw open a door.
But even Schmidt has been at pains to deflect invitations to gaze into the distance and talk heroic homecomings in Dublin.
“We let the external noise just be external to us,” Wright said.
“Joe, along with all the coaching staff, we’ve got loads of experience steering us in the right direction and just definitely keeping a level head on where we’re at.
“By no means are we the next big thing. Our next task is Murrayfield, and Scotland are a handful at the best of times.”
Wright’s off-field caution starkly contrasts with his on-field confidence. The 27-year-old former Manly Sea Eagle was among the Wallabies’ best at Twickenham and won man-of-the-match in Wales.
In the two Tests, Wright has run for 329 metres with 26 carries, beaten 13 defenders and scored four tries already; yet again raising questions about Eddie Jones ignoring him for a World Cup spot.
Wright spoke earlier in the year about seeking a balance with his attacking instincts and smart decision-making at fullback, but the backing of coaches like Stephen Larkham and Schmidt has been crucial for his confidence to go for the unpredictable option under pressure.
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“Joe, when he was appointed to the job, he got across all the Super Rugby clubs, saw us, got to meet us in person,” Wright said.
“He built a small rapport before the July series, and since then we’ve been able to grow in confidence. I am definitely still building my own game but understanding the fundamentals of my game are really important, and allow me to do the attacking stuff.”