23 Sep 2008

Teenager set to become second youngest Wallaby ever

6:56 pm on 23 September 2008

The teenaged utility back James O'Connor is poised to become the second youngest Wallaby player ever after being included in the 34-man Australian rugby squad for the tour to Europe.

The Western Force player is one of four newcomers named by coach Robbie Deans, along with Western Force openside flanker David Pocock, Queensland Reds flyhalf Quade Cooper and NSW Waratahs prop Sekope Kepu.

At 18 years and 80 days, O'Connor should become the second youngest player when he first takes the field during the six-match tour.

The youngest ever Wallaby was Queensland winger Brian Ford, who was 18 years and 90 days when he appeared against New Zealand at Brisbane in 1957.

The Wallabies play New Zealand in Hong Kong in November before tests against Italy, England, France, Wales and a Barbarians side.