The queuing stars making a case for Wallabies wing spot
Wallabies legend Tim Horan has outlined who he believes are the firm favourites to star on the wing for Australia this year.
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt is only a few weeks into the job and already has a problem on his hands.
It's a good one, however. Depth in the stocks of Test-quality wingers means Schmidt will have to be picky with who he selects.
According to Wallabies legend Tim Horan, Marika Koroibete is a lock to play for Australia when the Test season starts in July, leaving just one spot available to Super Rugby Pacific players.
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Koroibete has been plying his trade in Japan, playing for Saitama Wild Knights in the Rugby League One competition where he's starred.
The former Melbourne Rebels star has enjoyed a purple patch of late, scoring a double in back-to-back matches in his latest outings.
"I've seen a bit of footage of Marika Koroibete playing in Japan. He's been outstanding for the Wallabies for many years now. He'd be your first winger selected," said Horan on Stan Sport show Rugby Heaven.
"The way that he's scored a couple of tries the last week again for his Japanese team. I think just the way he plays the game, he gets involved. He comes off the wing at the right time. He knows when to stay on his wing. Defensively, of course we've seen the last couple of seasons how good he is for the Wallabies. Marika, he holds down one spot."
The other spot will be hotly contested.
Schmidt has said previously that priority will be given to local players, perhaps casting some doubt over Horan's expectation that Koroibete will be one of the Wallabies' starting wingers.
There are a handful of players who are high-quality options for Schmidt.
"I think you've got to throw up names like Tom Wright (Brumbies), Andrew Kellaway (Rebels), Jordie Petaia (Reds)," said Horan.
"The big challenge for Jordie is; what's his best position? He started at fullback, now he's on the wing.
"Filipo Daugunu (Rebels), the way that he's been playing for the Rebels, the higher the Rebels stay his chances become better. That's for one or two spots.
"You've got Max Jorgensen (Waratahs) who may get to the No.15 spot. So I think Joe Schmidt has got a good opportunity with all those wingers. Then you can throw in a Corey Toole (Brumbies) for the squad."
Sevens convert Darby Lancaster (Rebels) is another name Horan tipped to get a look in.
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"There was a lot of talk about Darby Lancaster on Saturday night and how he played – three tries," said Horan.
"I think with Darby we need to see more of him in New Zealand playing against a tough Kiwi opposition where if he doesn't score any tries but he's got to make defence.
"He's got to get across that advantage line. Let him play Super Rugby and maybe if he's good enough, an end-of-season tour for the grand slam."