Now McReight has revealed what an impact Hooper has had on his development as the Wallabies’ focus turns to another clash with South Africa at the newly-built $830 million Allianz Stadium on Saturday night.
“I waited a long time to get that exposure. Competing with Hoops for two and a half years was really good for my development in terms of just seeing how he prepares,” McReight said.
Fraser McReight celebrates one of his two tries against the Springboks.Credit:Getty
“He’s a soldier of the game and he’s a great of the game, so just seeing how he goes and backs up from game to game, for myself it was great to learn and view. We’re two different players but being his apprentice and learning from him has been wonderful for me.
“Hoops leaving created an opportunity for myself to step in that jersey. Obviously he’s been wearing that jersey for a decade so it was a big honour. I want to do him proud and I want to do the jersey proud. I thought I did that.
“It’s just a big learning curve, lots of developing on and off the field, and just understanding what Test footy is all about.”
McReight knows Hooper will likely walk straight back into the No. 7 jersey when he decides he is ready to return to international rugby, and Wallabies coach Dave Rennie has little appetite for two specialist openside flankers in his match day 23.
But the Queenslander says he would be happy to bid his time again should Hooper return, with next year’s Rugby World Cup looming as the skipper’s potential farewell to the international arena.
“Obviously I’m young. Hoops is still young as well but he’s got eight years on me. His clock was running and my clock was just beginning,” McReight said.
“I knew there was going to be a point, it’s just more about sticking in on the tough days and knowing rewards would come. Obviously it’s just more about when and hopefully I could get an opportunity, which I have been given.”
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