A big, strong back in the Michael Cronin mould, Gidley is able to draw in defenders and hold up the ball for quicker outside men.
Unspectacular form during the season led some to suggest he was lucky to make the tour, but he enjoyed a successful end to the Australian domestic season playing in Newcastle's NRL Grand Final victory over Parramatta.
Scored Australia's opening try in the World Cup final against New Zealand at Old Trafford in 2000.
