Quade Cooper is considering a return to international rugby with the Australian Wallabies, targeting a spot as five-eighth for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted on home soil. The 38-year-old had stepped away from playing last year to focus on coaching but has since expressed renewed ambition to rejoin the national squad.
Cooper, who has represented Australia in two World Cups (2011 and 2015), was excluded from the 2023 World Cup squad by coach Eddie Jones just before the team departed for France—a decision that surprised many. After transitioning into an attack coaching role with Japan’s Hanazono Kintetsu Liners, Cooper now believes he has both the physical capability and the mindset to compete at the highest level once again.
“The thing is I never retired, I just had other opportunities that presented themselves,” Cooper said, reflecting on his previous mental fatigue compounded by injury struggles and the abrupt omission from the 2023 squad. “When you miss out on things like that, we’re all human… But when it’s a home World Cup, of course I’m interested.”
Cooper’s potential comeback aligns with similar moves by other veteran players aiming for the next World Cup. The New South Wales Waratahs are reportedly in talks to sign Bernard Foley, 36, who also harbors World Cup ambitions, while James O’Connor, of the same age, is set to join the Western Force ahead of 2027. Collectively, these experienced playmakers bring invaluable know-how to the Wallabies’ options at five-eighth and fullback.
Despite his overseas coaching commitments, Cooper remains eligible for Wallabies selection under Rugby Australia’s current “Giteau Law,” which permits overseas-based players to be considered for the national team. However, rejoining an Australian Super Rugby franchise would likely enhance his chances of selection. Possible destinations include Queensland Reds, where Cooper previously won a premiership in 2011 and where emerging playmakers Carter Gordon and Tom Lanchy are currently based; Western Force, with Harry McLaughlin-Phillips and O’Connor; the Brumbies, boasting Declan Meredith and Tane Edmed; or the Waratahs alongside Foley and Max Burey.
Cooper’s coaching experience has expanded his understanding of the game significantly. His work with players such as South Africa’s Manie Libbok and New Zealand’s Akira Ioane has deepened his tactical perspective, which Cooper credits with providing insight beyond that of a player. “As a player, you’re just completing someone else’s game plan,” he said. Coaching has allowed him to envision and construct a broader strategic framework, identifying strengths and gaps others might overlook.
While the question remains whether Cooper can secure a place in the Wallabies’ coaching staff or playing squad ahead of the 2027 tournament under interim coach Les Kiss, Rugby Australia could benefit from leveraging his dual experience as a seasoned international player and emerging coach. With a history of 80 Tests, Cooper’s blend of leadership and technical acumen positions him as a potentially valuable asset in the buildup to the next Rugby World Cup.