Wallabies flank David Pocock has been ruled out of Saturday’s match against the Springboks with a neck injury.
Pocock has been replaced in the starting XV by Pete Samu, who was selected ahead of replacement forward Ned Hanigan and fellow squad back rower Caleb Timu.
‘I’m very disappointed for David and the team, he’s been in outstanding form all year and he’s a big leader,’ said Wallabies captain Michael Hooper on Friday.
‘Even just for him – he really wants to be out there, he’s given himself every chance, he’s been ticking all the boxes but it hasn’t come to light.
‘It’s unfortunate but Pete’s coming in, Pete Samu and he’s been doing a great job in the cameos he’s been having off the bench.
‘It’s a different combination there of course. I’ve been very impressed with Pete and his performances throughout the year,’ Hooper added.
‘It’s a straight swap just in terms of how our plays go and how we look to change the game.
‘Without changing too much, he comes in and fits in that role nicely.’
Wallabies – 15 Israel Folau, 14 Dane Haylett-Petty, 13 Reece Hodge, 12 Matt Toomua, 11 Marika Koroibete, 10 Kurtley Beale, 9 Will Genia, 8 Pete Samu, 7 Michael Hooper (c), 6 Lukhan Tui, 5 Adam Coleman, 4 Rory Arnold, 3 Allan Alaalatoa, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Scott Sio.
Subs: 16 Folau Faingaa, 17 Tom Robertson, 18 Taniela Tupou, 19 Izack Rodda, 20 Ned Hanigan, 21 Joe Powell, 22 Bernard Foley, 23 Jack Maddocks.
Photo: AAP
