The outstanding form of Wallabies flyer Marika Koroibete has led Rugby Australia director of rugby Scott Johnson to describe him as the world’s best wing.

Koroibete has been a consistent performer for Australia over the last few years but has particularly excelled in 2021.

He played a key role in their recent back-to-back victories over South Africa and touched down twice in their 30-17 triumph at the weekend.

A rugby league convert, having switched codes in 2016, Johnson has seen the speedster develop his game significantly over the years.

A role model

“When I first came back here, I had watched him overseas, but he was more rugby league than rugby union,” he told the Sydney Morning Herald.

“Now, you see the skills that he possesses – the long passes, the kicking – and his work rate on the weekend was nothing short of phenomenal.

“Any aspiring young winger that wants to see a role model of what’s required in the professional game, look at his game.”

There are a number of excellent back three players in the game but Johnson has no doubts as to where the accolade of world’s best wing lies right now.

“On form, he’s the best winger in the world,” Johnson added. “We’re always seeking world XV players, and he’d be in a world XV right now.”

Despite Koroibete’s success in Australia, the wing has decided to leave the country, signing a four-year deal in the Japan Rugby League One.

Although he would be 33 by the time that contract ends, Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan would like to see him return.

“Obviously, he wants to look after his family. But he will go down as one of the Wallabies greats,” McLennan said. “We definitely want him back one day.”