Queensland Reds coach Les Kiss believes a breakthrough Japanese tour has sparked Tom Lynagh into the form that has many calling for a Wallabies starting debut against the British and Irish Lions.
Lynagh was player of the match in the Reds' win over the Blues, scoring a double and kicking every conversion in the 35-21 win in Brisbane.
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“He’s certainly getting better and better, he’s getting more robust and resilient,” Kiss told reporters.
“His kicking was superb…he pulled the trigger at the right time and took the line on when he needed to and gave us the momentum when we needed it.”
Kiss has noticed the growth since Lynagh missed selection for the Spring Tour with the national squad after debuting in the July series.
Following the omission, Lynagh impressed in a pair of wins over Saitama Wild Knights, going on to start for Australia XV against England.
“Last year we saw some good patches in and out of the team but this year the composure in his game is there and his voice is bigger in the team," Kiss said on the biggest difference in Lynagh's game this year.
“I think the way he took the reins in that Japanese game, whether as a starter or finisher, it’s certainly paid dividends, and he then went and played Australia A and did the same.
“All those experiences are coming together nicely and he’s only going to get better.”
Kiss may be coaching Lynagh at the national level, with the Reds coach linked to the vacant Wallabies coaching job.
Before that can occur, the Wallabies will face the Lions and Kiss believes Lynagh can be the man to take the starting flyhalf position.
“He’ll be in the hunt, but it’s not my decision (whether he starts)," he added.
“I think we’re doing a good job in that our players are skilled well, mentally tough and ready to do their bit in good and tough times.
“Our guys are doing that well and Tommy is one of those.”
