Joe Schmidt takes ruthless action as Wallabies head coach brutally ‘uninvites’ young talent after overseas deal
Langi Gleeson in action for Wallabies against England and head coach Joe Schmidt.
Joe Schmidt has sent a clear message to any Wallabies player thinking of signing for a club abroad after immediately dropping the axe.
On Tuesday, Midi Olympique reported that Waratahs back-rower Langi Gleeson had already ‘given his agreement’ to join Montpellier for the 2025/26 season.
That was then seemingly confirmed by Rugby Australia’s director of high performance Peter Horne, who ‘wished him well’ after penning his overseas deal.
‘Happy with the depth’
“We recognise the opportunity that was presented to Langi overseas and wish him well as he embarks on the next chapter of his career,” Horne told The Roar in a statement.
“We are happy with the depth we have developed across the system and look forward to the huge season ahead.”
However, Schmidt has since decided to ‘uninvite’ Gleeson to a three-day training camp, according to The Roar, as they begin preparations for the British and Irish Lions series in July.
The number eight, who can also feature at flank, was named in a 40-man squad for the camp at Olympic Park, but the New Zealander displayed his ruthless edge by immediately axing the loose forward.
Schmidt has consistently shown that he want individuals who are committed to Australian rugby, with NRL-bound Mark Nawaqanitawase and Carter Gordon among those to be sidelined last year.
Wallabies blow as young talent who made big impact for Joe Schmidt’s side ‘agrees’ overseas deal
Izaia Perese was another player who never got an opportunity in 2024 after signing for English Premiership side Leicester Tigers.
While Gleeson is not technically out of the Wallabies frame, with the 23-year-old having a Super Rugby campaign at the Waratahs to stake his claim, it seems that nothing will convince the head coach if players sign abroad.
The back-rower is still technically contracted until the end of 2025, meaning that he is eligible for the Lions series, but Schmidt is looking to build a squad around those who want to remain in Australia.
Overseas policy
He is currently allowed to pick a limited number of overseas-based individuals, but the 59-year-old has so far been reluctant to do that.
Marika Koroibete was selected for the Rugby Championship, while Samu Kerevi and Will Skelton featured in the Autumn Nations Series – all experienced Wallabies – but no one else received a call-up.
It therefore seems unlikely that Gleeson will be picked if Schmidt remains in his role until the Rugby World Cup.
The head coach is only contracted until the conclusion of the Lions series, however, and although talks are underway to extend that deal, his personal circumstances may make it difficult to stay on as the Wallabies’ boss.
