ZCZC
BSP-12
RUGBYU-AUS-IRL
Wallabies unchanged for first time under Cheika
MELBOURNE, June 14, 2018 (BSS/AFP) – Coach Michael Cheika on Thursday named
an unchanged Wallabies line-up for the first time in his four-year tenure for
the second Test against Ireland in Melbourne.
It is the only time Cheika has retained the same match-day squad for back-
to-back Tests in his 46 games in charge, after taking the reins in November
2014.
The Wallabies won the opening match of the three-Test series 18-9 over the
Six Nations champions in Brisbane last weekend.
Cheika made no changes despite the availability after injury of flanker Ned
Hanigan (knee) and lock Rory Arnold (suspension).
There was talk he would rush back Hanigan into the team to strengthen the
line out, which was one area that wobbled in the first Test against Ireland,
the world’s number two ranked team.
Caleb Timu maintained his position in the back row and even with Cheika
keeping a six-two forwards-backs split on the bench, Arnold could not oust
Rob Simmons or Lukhan Tui for a spot among the reserves.
Ireland last played Australia in Melbourne in 2008, when the Wallabies won
18-12.
Australia (15-1)
Israel Folau; Dane Haylett-Petty, Samu Kerevi, Kurtley Beale, Marika
Koroibete; Bernard Foley, Will Genia; Caleb Timu, Michael Hooper (capt),
David Pocock; Adam Coleman, Izack Rodda; Sekope Kepu, Brandon Paenga-Amosa,
Scott Sio.
Reserves: Tolu Latu, Tom Robertson, Taniela Tupou, Rob Simmons, Lukhan Tui,
Pete Samu, Nick Phipps, Reece Hodge.
BSS/AFP/MR/1038 hrs