You’d never have thought Quade Cooper had been out of the Wallabies jersey for a full four years, after the mercurial fly-half slotted the match-winning penalty kick against South Africa last weekend.
Such was the coolness of the Kiwi-born Australia player, this was a man who was in the zone but seemingly making the incredibly difficult look easy.
WATCH: Humble Quade’s stirring tribute to SBW after match-winning heroics
What was even more impressive was how composed Cooper had been pre-match as well, as he conducted an interview during his warm-up kicking practice. For Cooper, it was as much a blessing to be back on the playing field as it was a surprise to see the 33-year-old recalled to Dave Rennie’s side.
.@QuadeCooper looks dialled in pre-game 🗣️
The Rugby Championship. Every Match. Ad-free. Live & On Demand.#StanSportAU | #RSAvAUS | #TRC2021 pic.twitter.com/0sRKJdLint
— Stan Sport (@StanSportAU) September 12, 2021
Stan Sport has been praised for its rugby coverage since it took over the rights from Fox Sports in Australia and Cooper’s pre-match chat went down a storm, not only because it allowed viewers some insight into how the half-back went through his warm-up, but how relaxed he was ahead of his big return.
Talking all the way up to his practice kick, Cooper duly knocked it through the posts, nonchalantly giving it a “yeah, all good” to the boys back up in the studio.
Come the game, Cooper turned out to be the hero of the hour with his last-gasp penalty which sunk the Springboks. Ever the humble man, Cooper was not keen on celebrating too much.
Be aware of your ego in good times, do not forget that the journey has no finish line. It’s a continual work in progress with ups, downs, wins and losses. The constant is never-ending focus. Focus on building good habits in your life through discipline each day.. pic.twitter.com/J64PtouI8Q
— Quade Cooper (@QuadeCooper) September 14, 2021
Cooper spoke to the media after the famous win.
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