“Pass and kicking game is the main area. I think it’s difficult for young nines and tens, and you’ve got to be patient with them,” McKellar said.
“Teddy probably played at school and even at club rugby where you can run your way out of trouble. At Super Rugby and Test Rugby, you can’t. The defences are too strong, so it’s developing that knowledge and understanding on how you control a game. He’s certainly getting a whole lot better in that. I’m really happy that Teddy gets a crack.”
Teddy Wilson celebrates with Junior Wallabies teammates in 2023.Credit: Getty Images
Wilson’s lack of game time has opened a door for rivals to circle the 22-year-old, however, ready to pounce on any signs of frustration. And with Wilson off contract this year, informed sources say the Western Force have made a big play at recruiting the youngster to succeed 34-year-old Nic White.
So with Gordon also off contract and deciding between staying or playing overseas, the Waratahs could face the prospect of losing their top halfback and the young gun they’ve been developing for years – albeit slowly.
Citing his management of Ryan Lonergan and White at the Brumbies, McKellar said at the start of the season he would look to develop Wilson at the Tahs. But giving him a maiden start was not related to any worries about the future, McKellar said.
“We’ve got to develop players here [but] I think Queensland versus NSW is probably not a game where you’re thinking, how can we develop players? It’s, how can we win the game?” McKellar said. “Teddy’s in there because we think he’s the best option to start with for this particular game. It’ll be a great experience for him and his family.”
McKellar lauded the impact of Leafi Talataina against the Force, which convinced him the Melbourne recruit was also ready to start at No.8 just a week after his Super Rugby debut. The 112kg 21-year-old has replaced Langi Gleeson, who picked up a cork but is fit to play and will come off the bench.
McKellar said it was a “privilege” to be a part of the fabled Waratahs-Reds rivalry, dating back to 1882, and he didn’t back down from his provocative comments at the weekend where he said the Reds were the “best team in the comp”.
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He grabbed the underdog tag early but the Reds were thumped the next day by the Crusaders.
“I thought for periods they looked like the best team in the comp, didn’t they? When they get their game going, they’re very good,” he said.
“They’re certainly not the first or last that will go to Chrischurch and have a tough day. But there were periods throughout that game where you can see how dangerous they are.”
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