JOHN Eales insists Rugby Union's popularity in Australia will plummet if the Wallabies don't get back on the winning trail.
Rugby Union is behind rugby league, Australian rules, cricket and football in terms of popularity in Australia. And Eales believes Australia must bounce back from a disappointing World Cup in 2020 or fall further behind.
“You're always competing for the hearts and minds of people and it's easier to do that when you're winning”, said Australian World Cup winning captain Eales.
“There's no question of that. When the Wallabies have gone through their successful eras, they've been right in the centre of the thoughts of the sporting world in Australia.
“It is harder when you're not getting the regular wins.”
The Wallabies have flattered to deceive in recent years and were dumped out of the World Cup at the quarter-final stage by England.
Their abject showing in Japan has led to head coach Michael Cheika walking away with Glasgow boss Dave Rennie the favourite to take over.
Eales maintains there is light at the end of the tunnel.
“I think the people who have been watching it will have seen our schoolboys team have a very good year, our U20s team had a very good year at the World Cup, although not quite winning it”, he said.
“So there is that good talent coming through. While there have definitely been some challenges in Australia, there's also a great will to see the team succeed.
“Hopefully this next generation of players, who are getting some success at a younger age, can come through and experience it at the next level.
“The players want a coach who can deliver a successful environment which will allow them to improve and grow.
“Dave Rennie has had a lot of success but there are a lot of other candidates who have also been very successful.”
