Folau is the man for the moment: Deans

 

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has defended his decision to select code-hopper Israel Folau for the 25-man squad for the Lions series, saying the priority was winning for Australia in the here and now.

Deans responded to criticism by the likes of Brumbies coach Jake White and former Wallaby Stephen Larkham who believe the former rugby league and AFL player should not be picked for the preliminary squad because he was yet to commit to the code beyond this year.

“It’s more about the fact that he’s committed to playing rugby union and he’s playing rugby union, and he’s contracted and available now,” Deans said.

He denied that Folau’s selection was a lure to keep the star player in the game and stop a move back to rugby league.