Test match veteran James O’Connor features in a much-changed Australian line-up as they prepare for their second match against Argentina in The Rugby Championship.
Despite their impressive victory last week, which saw them pull away from Los Pumas in a devastating final quarter, coach Dave Rennie has made four changes to the starting XV, as he looks to keep his side’s 100% record in the tournament.
Though they will have only played the weakest team in the tournament – when previous performances in the Championship and current World Rankings are considered – another bonus point win will ensure they sit top of the table ahead of two home games against South Africa, the tournament favourites.
Their changes are split evenly between the forwards and backs, with O’Connor replacing Quade Cooper, who James Horwill revealed has a serious achilles injury in our podcast on Wednesday.
O’Connor’s experience might be crucial to making sure Lalakai Foketi’s first start goes according to plan, with the inside centre making his first start in just his second appearance in Wallaby colours, coming in for the concussed Hunter Paisami
In the pack, Australia have made two changes to their front five as Taniela Tupou starts at tighthead in place of Allan Alaalatoa who has flown back to Australia following a family bereavement, with
Toulouse player Rory Arnold benefits from recent changes to Giteau’s law as he comes in for Matt Philip in the second row, rounding off the changes made by Rennie.
Wallabies coach Dave Rennie said: “After a tough, physical game last week it’s great to be able to call on the experience of guys like James and Rory and also see the team’s excitement for La and Irae who get to wear the Wallaby gold again on Saturday.”
“It’s going to be a proud occasion for Pone and his family and it’s a testament to him for the hard work and obstacles he’s had to overcome to earn his first Test cap.
“Argentina and their supporters will be expecting a response this weekend and we’ll need to increase our physicality and accuracy to get another positive result in San Juan.”
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