HomeWorld NewsParis Olympian Receives First Call-Up for USA Eagles 15s International Tour

Paris Olympian Receives First Call-Up for USA Eagles 15s International Tour

Rising Star: Malacchi Esdale’s Potential USA Eagles Debut

Malacchi Esdale, a dynamic player who recently showcased his talents at the Paris Olympics, finds himself on the verge of a major step forward in his rugby career. Selected in the USA Men’s Eagles travelling squad for an upcoming three-Test tour, Esdale could potentially make his debut next month, starting with a match against Scotland on November 1.

A Taste of Olympic Glory

Esdale was part of an impressive USA team at the Paris Games, which boasted celebrated players like Perry Baker, known for his flair on the SVNS Series, and promising talent Lucas Lacamp. During the Olympics, Team USA faced off against the formidable French side led by Antoine Dupont. Although they exited medal contention after a tough quarter-final loss to Australia, Esdale’s performance during the tournament has positioned him as a player to watch in the international arena.

Transition to 15s Rugby

After his Olympic adventure, Esdale transitioned back to the 15s format, playing a season with the Houston SaberCats in Major League Rugby (MLR). His skills quickly caught the attention of the Seattle Seawolves, who confirmed his signing on September 9, 2024. Joining the Seawolves not only marks an exciting new chapter in his career but also places him in a squad known for its competitive spirit and ambition in the league.

A New Look for the Eagles

The forthcoming tour represents a crucial moment for the USA Men’s Eagles, particularly as they prepare for a busy but strategic series of matches. Alongside Esdale, forward David Ainu’u and hooker Mikey Sosene-Feagai have made their way back into the squad after overcoming injuries. Meanwhile, scrumhalf Michael Baska has been called up for international duty for the first time since 2022, signaling a refreshing revival of the squad.

Focus on 2027 Rugby World Cup

After securing a spot in the 2027 Rugby World Cup by defeating Samoa 29-13 in the Pacific Nations Cup, USA Rugby’s focus has shifted to “identifying and cultivating a Rugby World Cup calibre team.” This strategic mission underlines the importance of the Autumn internationals, as they provide a significant opportunity for current players to prove themselves and for the coaching staff to evaluate the team’s development.

The Tour Itinerary

The Eagles’ three-Test tour kicks off against Scotland at Murrayfield, followed by matches in Batumi against Georgia on November 8, and in Bucharest against Romania on November 15. These fixtures are not just friendly contests; they carry weight in terms of world rankings, which play a key role in shaping World Cup pool seedings. With high stakes on the line, each match presents an opportunity to test the squad against some of the best teams in international rugby.

Coach Scott Lawrence’s Vision

Head Coach Scott Lawrence emphasized the importance of the forthcoming matches, stating that the Autumn tour will serve as a valuable opportunity for the team to measure itself against top-tier international competition. “The opening match against Scotland is a notable opportunity against a top team,” he noted, highlighting the significance of the entire tour in shaping the Eagles’ future prospects.

Squad Dynamics and Key Inclusions

However, not all players will feature in the opening match against Scotland. Ainu’u, Tonga Kofe, Rufus McLean, and Nafi Ma’afu will miss the initial encounter but are expected to return for the latter matches against Georgia and Romania. This showcases the ongoing development and evolution of the squad as they incorporate fresh talent and experience into the mix.

Key Player Profiles in the Squad

The Eagles’ Autumn internationals squad features a blend of new faces and established talent. Players like Ezekiel Lindenmuth, Maliu Niuafe, and Kaleb Geiger will be looking to make an impression, while veterans like Esdale aim to solidify their roles on the international stage. The diverse backgrounds and experiences of the squad members promise an exciting tournament ahead.

Non-Travelling Reserves and Injuries

It’s worth noting that several players have been designated as non-travelling reserves, including Jake Turnbull and Sean McNulty, as well as notable injuries affecting key performers like AJ MacGinty and Siaosi Mahoni. Their absence underscores the challenges the squad has faced and highlights the need for depth and resilience in international rugby.

As the countdown to the much-anticipated matches begins, the focus is firmly on the talent stepping into the spotlight, notably Malacchi Esdale, whose Olympic journey may very well set the stage for a prominent role within the USA Men’s Eagles. Each player will be striving to carve out their legacy as they represent their country on the global stage.

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