Imagine the pressure: You're Tommy Freeman, stepping into a crucial role for England against a fired-up Australian team hungry for revenge. But rugby legend George Gregan has just thrown down the gauntlet, predicting Australia will relentlessly target Freeman's defense at outside center. Is Freeman ready for the heat?
Former Australia captain George Gregan, a man who knows a thing or two about high-stakes rugby, has publicly stated that the Wallabies will be laser-focused on testing Tommy Freeman's defensive capabilities in the No. 13 channel when England face Australia this Saturday. Gregan's warning adds another layer of intrigue to an already highly anticipated match.
Steve Borthwick's England squad is gearing up for their autumn campaign opener at Twickenham, facing an Australian side still riding high from their dramatic, last-minute victory over England last year. To shake things up, Borthwick has made some bold selection choices. George Ford gets the nod at fly-half (No. 10), edging out Fin Smith. Tom Roebuck, Ford's teammate from Sale Sharks, will take a spot on the wing. But the selection causing the most buzz? The decision to field Tommy Freeman at outside center (No. 13).
Freeman, typically a winger for Northampton, is being asked to transition to a more central role in the midfield. Just last Friday, he showcased his offensive prowess by scoring four tries while wearing the No. 14 jersey in Northampton's impressive victory over Saracens. But here's where it gets controversial... Outside center demands a completely different skillset, especially when it comes to defending. Is Freeman prepared for the intense defensive demands of the position?
"They’ll definitely target him. That’s nothing new. They’re going to ask him some questions,” Gregan stated bluntly. “I’d be very surprised if they didn’t, I’d be very surprised if [Wallabies head coach] Joe Schmidt hadn’t created something around there.” Gregan's words suggest a calculated strategy from the Australian camp.
Gregan elaborated, “Australia have a very smart way of attacking which can ‘show up’ one way, and they’ve got a few options off it. That’s what good attack does. Twelve and 13 is an area you always want to try and target. And if you can create doubt there, that sort of flows on everywhere, inside and out.” He emphasizes the ripple effect that exploiting a weakness in the 12-13 channel can have on the entire defensive line. Think of it like this: if the defense is constantly worried about a specific point, it creates openings elsewhere.
Gregan, a veteran of 139 international caps, captained Australia to the 2003 World Cup and played a pivotal role in their series victory against the British & Irish Lions in 2001. He brings unparalleled experience to the table. And this is the part most people miss... His emphasis on the defensive challenges of the outside center position highlights just how crucial this role is in modern rugby.
“The No 13 channel is hard to defend,” Gregan explained, adding: “I think it’s probably the hardest place to defend on the field. You’ve got to work with your man on the inside, particularly in the modern game … you’ve got to get it right, you’ve got to be committed, you’ve got to make good decisions.” The speed and complexity of modern attacks require split-second decisions and unwavering commitment from the outside center.
While discussing team selections, Gregan also expressed his admiration for Marcus Smith, who surprisingly didn't make the matchday 23. He predicts that Smith will remain a key player for England as Borthwick juggles his fly-half options – Ford, Fin Smith, and Marcus Smith – in the lead-up to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. Last year, Marcus Smith was moved to full-back to accommodate Fin Smith at No. 10, but Freddie Steward will be wearing the No. 15 jersey this weekend.
“That might change,” Gregan said of Marcus Smith’s absence from the squad. “Marcus Smith hasn’t been axed. I’m a big fan. He’s a wonderful player. England have got a plethora of options there [at fly-half].”
Gregan continued, “Anyone who’s got a running threat and a passing threat, and an ability to back themselves which Marcus does – he’s always had that in spades. England have got a lot of artillery with those gentlemen [Marcus Smith, Fin Smith and Ford]. How they want to put that into the game, and play that week, that’s totally up to them.
“I’m sure they’re competing hard at training and anyone who misses out wants to get into the 23. Competition’s important and that brings the best out of the players.” This constant competition for places keeps the players sharp and motivated.
Beyond the headline selections, Gregan also highlighted the potential of other players. He likened Noah Caluori's aerial skills to those of an AFL player, jokingly suggesting he might switch to Australian Rules Football. He also praised Henry Pollock, Freeman's Northampton teammate, who will be on the bench at Twickenham.
“His debut against Wales in the last Six Nations was very impressive, off the back of a lot of positive chat from people who I really respect,” Gregan said. “Then you watch him, and he’s everywhere, and he’s just going to get better. It was a really inspired choice by Faz [Andy Farrell] to have him part of that Lions team.”
So, the stage is set. Will Australia's targeted attack on Freeman's defense prove successful? Or will Freeman rise to the challenge and silence the doubters? And what do you make of Marcus Smith's omission – a tactical masterstroke or a missed opportunity? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
