Carter Gordon

Carter Gordon is a big bodied fly half who has rekindled memories of Stephen Larkham, the Wallabies’ greatest professional era #10, with his feel for the game, flat-at-the-line play, decisive passing and fearless defence. Nonetheless, what may appear to some as overnight success belies the fact that Gordon’s journey has been both several years in the making and a tad bumpy along the way.

A star schoolboy out of Brisbane Boys’ College, Gordon went on to represent Queensland U16s (2017), Queensland Schools (2017-18). He also won four caps for Australian Schools (2018) alongside Angus Bell and Billy Pollard. Gordon’s strong GPS and Australian Schoolboy form saw him rewarded with a Reds Developing contract in 2019, a year in which “one of Queensland’s top schoolboy talents transitioned comfortably into Premier Grade Rugby” at Wests. Unfortunately, COVID-19 denied him the opportunity to attend the 2020 U20s Championship in Italy although that disappointment was tempered by a signed contract with the Reds.

Gordon subsequently accepted an offer to join the Melbourne Rebels, where he was pitched the role of starting No.10, inside Matt Toomua. However, Gordon didn’t make his debut until round 10 of Super Rugby AU when he came off the bench in the 36-25 win over the Waratahs. That win was followed by five heavy defeats in SR Trans-Tasman, a tough way to end the season. Although Gordon started Super Rugby 2022 in the ten jersey his stint lasted just one round - the 5-23 first up loss to the Reds. Being dropped and then recalled out of position at fullback, with To’omua at 10, proved to be a valuable learning experience.

To’omua’s retirement “handed the keys” to Gordon for the 2023 SR season and to say he grabbed the opportunity with both hands is a gross understatement. Arguably the Australian player of the tournament, Gordon delivered consistently direct and physical performances, two of which stood out. First, away to the Chiefs in round one, Gordon exhibited ‘courage under fire’ as the home side sent Pita Gus Sowakula charging down his channel all day. Gordon didn’t flinch, made every tackle, finished 13 from 13 and still managed to play a highly effective role in attack. Second, home to the Brumbies, he threw two sublimes passes to his right winger Lachie Anderson - one arched to counter the intercept-lurking Corey Toole and another ripped across the chests of Wallabies Len Ikitau and Tom Wright - both of which resulted in tries.

Wallaby coach Eddie Jones liked what he saw. “He has been very impressive. His work ethic. His ability to take the ball to the line. His ability to mix his game up and his defensive tenacity. I love his competitiveness and he has that feel in the game about when to flatten up, and when to play deeper, which is a bit of a lost art.” The Sunshine Coast kid with the blond mullet appears set for great things in the years ahead.