Five former Wallabies had debuted for the Kangaroos in the inaugural Test three weeks earlier, Hardcastle's league Test debut that day with George Watson made them the 6th and 7th Australian dual code internationals. He also played in the 3rd Test a week later.
In the context of Australian rugby union, five former Wallabies had made their debut for the Kangaroos in their first-ever Test match three weeks earlier. Hardcastle's league Test debut on that day was notable, as he was joined by George Watson, resulting in them becoming the sixth and seventh Australian players to have experience in both rugby league and rugby union. Additionally, he went on to participate in the third Test a week later.