Ex-Wallabies star makes HUGE impact on rugby league debut following shock code switch
Carter Gordon has made an impressive start to life in rugby league
Former Wallabies star Carter Gordon has made an impressive start to life in rugby league with a try-scoring debut in the QLD Cup.
Making his senior bow in rugby league, Gordon played a major role in the Tweed Seagulls’ – who are a feeder for NRL side Gold Coast Titans – 34-20 win over Western Clydesdales on Sunday in the reserve grade competition.
Alongside his try, he also notched an assist and racked up an impressive tally of 137 metres and made two line-breaks on the way to victory.
Carter Gordon begins training with the Gold Coast Titans
It was confirmed last month the Melbourne Rebels man would join NRL outfit Gold Coast Titans ahead of the 2025 season, however following the end of the Super Rugby Pacific campaign, he has already begun training with his new employers.
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The 23-year-old is now officially part of the Titans wider training squad, and will join the full-time NRL squad next year.
Since linking up with the Titans, Gordon has quickly made a good impression on coach Des Hasler.
“He’s now started his integration and trained with us this morning as he begins his development and education,” Hasler said. “But we’re not going to rush him. It’s certainly beneficial for him and the team in the long run.”
Gordon also detailed his excitement to be linking up with the Titans early ahead of the move.
“It’s exciting to be joining early,” he said. “I’m really eager to come in with an open mind and learn from the squad who have been playing rugby league their whole lives.”
He added: “This game is something I’ve always been interested in, so I’m excited to begin the transition and to get the chance to start training early is something I’m really grateful for.”
Not the only Wallaby switching
Gordon became the second member of the Wallabies squad to make the move across to the NRL, with former teammate Mark Nawaqanitawase joining the Sydney Roosters.
The duo were key members of the Wallabies squad for the World Cup under Eddie Jones, but new boss Joe Schmidt will have to find long-term replacements for them.