Jorgensen hails Beale's Wallabies recall as idol becomes training-camp teammate

Max Jorgensen has called Kurtley Beale’s return to the Wallabies squad a personal milestone, admitting the 37-year-old veteran was “one of my idols” as he grew up watching Australian rugby.

Beale was recalled to the Wallabies’ November Nations Championship touring party after centre Hunter Paisami withdrew through injury. Coach Les Kiss also added Kalani Thomas and uncapped winger James Ramm to the group. Beale had not featured in a Wallabies squad for two years and last wore Test gold against Wales in 2021, leaving him five caps short of the 100-Test milestone at 95 appearances.

The utility back’s recall was earned on form. Beale was recognised as one of the top-three players of the 2026 Super Rugby AUS season after helping the Western Force reach the Grand Final, contributing a long-range cut-out pass to set up winger Dylan Pietsch among several key involvements.

For Jorgensen, the 22-year-old winger who has already established himself as a genuine game-breaker at Test level, sharing a training camp with Beale carries a different kind of weight.

“Everyone knows what Kurtley’s done in his career and what he brings to the squad. He’s got so much experience,” Jorgensen told reporters. “For me personally, it’s pretty special. I grew up watching him, he was one of my idols, so to be in camp with him and learn from him is really cool.”

Jorgensen added that Beale’s presence strengthens the Wallabies’ backline options heading into a demanding tour schedule. “Everyone knows what Kurtley can do. It’s always good having that little extra competition, extra options throughout the backline depending on how we want to play.”

The Wallabies have arrived in the United Kingdom and open their tour against England at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium, before travelling to Edinburgh to face Scotland and then Cardiff for Wales. The tour concludes back in London for the Nations Championship Finals Weekend.

Among the wider squad, props Allan Alaalatoa and Beale carry the most experience, while Teddy Wilson, Tom Lambert, and Ramm are the three uncapped prospects. With Paisami unavailable at inside centre, Isaac Henry and Len Ikitau are the leading candidates for the No. 12 jersey.