Five years after his last Test, Kurtley Beale answers Les Kiss's SOS and heads to the UK with the Wallabies, with 95 caps already behind him.
Rugby loves a plot twist, and the Wallabies have just delivered a big one. Kurtley Beale, 37, is back in the Australian squad five years after his last Test appearance, called up for the spring tour of the UK.
Head coach Les Kiss made the call on Wednesday, and the veteran playmaker answered it. He joins the group for next month's three Tests against England, Scotland and Wales. Beale already has 95 caps, and this tour gives him the chance to add to that tally.
He is not the only new name. James Ramm and Kalani Thomas have also been included, adding fresh legs and fresh energy to a touring party that will be tested on the road. After the three Tests, the Wallabies stay in the UK for the inaugural Nations Championship finals, running from 21 to 23 November.
The timing matters too. With the Rugby World Cup coming to Australia next year, Kiss is clearly looking at experience, creativity and composure. Beale's recall suggests he thinks a player who has seen everything in the gold jersey could be useful as the squad takes shape.
