Kurtley Beale, the full-back for Australia, has been showcasing his skills in training recently and appears poised to return to the field for the Waratahs in their upcoming pre-season friendly against the Rebels next month.
Recovering from a shoulder injury, the versatile back, who made a mark during last year’s British & Irish Lions series, has rejoined training with the first team at NSW in preparation for the trial match against his previous club.
Daryl Gibson, the Waratahs’ assistant coach, has expressed satisfaction with Beale’s development during the pre-season, confidently stating that the player is in excellent condition as the 2014 Super Rugby season approaches.
He commented to AAP: “Kurtley has navigated the pre-season exceptionally well. His progress has impressed me.
“He has consistently improved, and I believe, as his confidence in the shoulder has increased, he is now fully engaging in contact. He is in peak fitness and in superb shape.”
As per the latest online rugby predictions, the Waratahs are anticipated to present a formidable lineup against the Rebels on February 1 in Albury, aiming to provide their key players with crucial playing time in advance of the official Super Rugby season.
Notable Australian players Adam Ashley-Cooper, Michael Hooper, and Israel Folau are also expected to participate alongside Beale.
Given the impending World Cup in England and Wales next year, having Beale fit and hopefully performing well is undoubtedly advantageous for head coach Ewen McKenzie, his Wallabies team, and fans watching live rugby online.