Mortlock tipped for Wallabies captaincy

Wallabies selectors are expected to name Stirling Mortlock as captain of the Australia squad for November’s four-Test tour of Europe.

Mortlock has led the side in the absence of George Gregan before, and with the usual skipper staying home to work on his own training regime in order to be ready for next year’s World Cup, Mortlock is expected to take over.

Selectors may also be grooming the star centre to take on the position permanently, with Gregan set to retire following the World Cup in March, though Mortlock will be happy for the veteran scrum-half to resume his role as leader when he returns to the team.

“George is a fantastic leader and captain,” Mortlock told The Daily Telegraph. “I’m more than happy to be led by him.

“I enjoyed the chance to captain that one game against England this year and if a bit more captaincy comes my way I’d be more than happy taking the role.

“But in no way would I push for that at George’s expense.”

Australia will take a 37-man squad on tour, with a view to experimenting with several players in some roles, particularly Gregan’s vacated number nine jersey.

The Wallabies take on Wales (November 4), Italy (November 11), Ireland (November 19) and Scotland (November 25). Mortlock admits the competition for spots will add an extra element of interest.

“The World Cup keeps getting closer and we know how significant this tour is in terms of being a springboard into next year and preparing for the World Cup,” he said.

“Everyone in the squad knows that, hence we’re already back in training. We’re fully aware of the ramifications of this tour.”