Tom Wright's Patient Wait for Super Rugby Return After ACL Injury
ACT Brumbies star Tom Wright is navigating the challenging road to recovery following knee surgery, with his return to Super Rugby Pacific still uncertain as he aims to reclaim his position as Australia's premier fullback. The Wallabies No.15, who established himself as one of the world's best in his position last year, suffered a torn anterior cruciate ligament in August during a Test match in Cape Town, abruptly halting his impressive form.
A Season of Setbacks and Recovery
Wright's injury was part of a series of setbacks that plagued the Wallabies under coach Joe Schmidt, contributing to a disappointing 5-10 record for the year and their first winless European tour in nearly seven decades. The 28-year-old underwent surgery immediately after the August injury, sparking initial concerns that he might miss the entire 2026 Super Rugby season ahead of next year's World Cup.
"Being able to follow the team on a week-to-week basis for the best part of 10 to 12 weeks post-operation... it was difficult to watch from afar," Wright admitted at Wednesday's Super Rugby Pacific launch in Auckland. "I felt like I was able to contribute a lot when I was there, and then you get removed from what you're so accustomed to. That was probably the most difficult part."
Timeline for Return and Rehabilitation Approach
Despite the challenges, Wright remains optimistic about his recovery timeline, expressing confidence that he'll return at least by the tournament's midway point. Tests scheduled in a fortnight are expected to provide clearer indications of his status and potential return date. The Brumbies back emphasized the importance of feeling comfortable before rushing back into competitive action.
"Maybe go off a little bit of feel, making sure that I feel comfortable to go back to the game so that I can get my timing and my feel," Wright explained regarding his mindset around a return. "It's pretty important for a player like me to get back up to speed with my handling and stuff like that. As soon as I have a better indication, I'll let everyone know."
Competition for the Fullback Position
During Wright's absence, Max Jorgensen and Andrew Kellaway have shared fullback duties for the Wallabies, creating increased competition for the coveted No.15 jersey. Former Wallabies fullback Matt Burke, who earned 81 Test caps during his career, understands the frustration of watching from the sidelines while others stake their claims.
"When you're injured you can't do anything," Burke told AAP. "And I've been there, busted shoulder, and had (Stephen) Larkham and (Chris) Latham there. I said, 'judge me when I'm back' - and that's all he can do."
Burke views Jorgensen as more effective on the wing rather than at fullback and believes the combinations Wright developed at the back during last year's standout performances will work in his favor. "The competition is there and it's great, but they had some spots in those games last year, that broken field play, was perfect," Burke noted. "That's time in the saddle... the ability to mind-read."
Brumbies Facing Transition Period
The ACT Brumbies, traditionally Australia's strongest Super Rugby franchise, enter the 2026 season without several key players who have departed for overseas clubs, including Tom Hooper, Len Ikitau, and Noah Lolesio. Despite these losses, Wright maintains confidence in the team's ability to perform, drawing on the club's history of exceeding expectations.
"We always fly under the radar, don't we? Always in January (people say), 'this is the year the Brumbies won't do well'," Wright remarked. "That's what the Brumbies have been built on since their inception."
Looking Ahead to World Cup Selection
With the 2027 Rugby World Cup on the horizon, Wright faces additional competition from players like Jordan Petaia, who has returned to rugby in France after a brief NFL stint, and potentially Angus Crichton, whose code switch from NRL could create positional shifts in the backline. The Brumbies star can only watch as others make their cases while he focuses on rehabilitation.
Wright's recovery journey represents both a personal challenge and a significant storyline for Australian rugby as the nation prepares to host the World Cup. His patience during this waiting period will be tested, but his determination to return to peak form remains unwavering as he works toward reclaiming his place in both the Brumbies and Wallabies lineups.
