Overview

• Cooper used an X Q&A after the match to say he did not think Edmed should be on a Test pitch and questioned Australia’s tactical framework.
• He later posted a public apology to Edmed, saying he understood the difficulty of the role and did not want to be an ex-player throwing shade.
• Head coach Joe Schmidt defended Edmed, describing the 25-year-old’s second Test start as a solid effort given his limited recent rugby and the conditions.
• Match reports noted a mixed display from Edmed, including a kickoff out on the full and a dropped ball, after a composed start.
• Cooper also floated the idea of bringing Carter Gordon back from the NRL as Rugby Australia assesses options at fly-half.