New Wallabies scrum-half Teddy Wilson and Australia's head coach Les Kiss (inset).
Uncapped Wallabies scrum-half Teddy Wilson is relishing the challenge of following in his famous father David’s footsteps on the international stage.
The 23-year-old is one of two uncapped players – along with loosehead prop Tom Lambert – who have been included in Australia’s squad for their upcoming Nations Championship Tests against England, Scotland and Wales in the United Kingdom.
Big boots to fill
The older Wilson was a legendary openside flanker, who represented the Wallabies in 79 Tests between 1992 and 2000. During that time, he captained Australia on nine occasions and was also part of their 1999 Rugby World Cup-winning squad in Wales.
Although that is a tough act to follow, his youngest son Teddy is now looking to make his own history.
“There are a few jerseys at home that are still there now, with the century game as well as the 1999 World Cup jersey. I always want to make my family proud,” Wilson told the media after being included in Wallabies head coach Les Kiss’ 33-man squad.
“My mum and dad have sacrificed a lot to put me in this position, so just to make them proud would be very special for me. Dad doesn’t really put much pressure on myself, he’s been there and done that, obviously, so he definitely tells me a few things and helps me a lot.
“He doesn’t put pressure on me. He just lets me play my game and if he needs to say something, he will.”
Wallabies squad: Les Kiss gets playmaker boost as son of World Cup winner earns maiden call-up
No stranger to international representation
Although Wilson, who represents the Waratahs at Super Rugby Pacific level, is a newbie in Kiss‘ squad, he is no stranger to international call-ups as he captained the Junior Wallabies in 2023 and also represented Australia’s sevens side in 2024.
His older brother, Harry, is still in that squad, and Teddy was able to reflect on their journey when he returned to Easts Rugby Club.
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“I was watching my brother [last] Friday down here at Easts, playing for the Aussie Sevens. Now I’m standing here, so it’s definitely a special moment for our family,” he said.
“We’re super grateful to be in this position…It’s a very special feeling. It’s a special moment for myself and my family.
“Playing rugby in Australia and growing up, this is definitely the team that you want to play for and aspire to get into.”