Code-swapping Koroibete a new face in Cheika’s tour squad
MELBOURNE: Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has named rugby league convert Marika Koroibete among three uncapped players in his 32-man squad for the season-ending tour of Europe.
The Fiji-born 24-year-old, who spent the past five years in Australia’s top-flight NRL, will bid to become the first player to represent the Wallabies before playing a Super Rugby match since Tatafu Polota-Nau in 2005.
Hooker Tolu Latu and utility back Kyle Godwin are the other uncapped players in the squad, which features nine of the 11 debutants blooded during the 2016 season.
Wing Koroibete, who has played rugby league for Fiji, will play Super Rugby for the Rebels next year. Godwin will move to the Brumbies from the Force next season. He can play centre and flyhalf and will provide cover at midfield after Samu Kerevi was ruled out with an ankle injury.
Kerevi’s injury could mean more time at centre for Israel Folau. Cheika could also return Tevita Kuridrani to No 13. – Reuters