Wallabies name squad for SA, UK
SYDNEY: Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika has named a 30-man squad to tour South Africa and England, for Tests against the Springboks and Argentina respectively.
There are two uncapped players in the 30-man group, with Rebels flyer Sefa Naivalu eligible for national selection after fulfilling his three-year residency requirement, while Waratahs hooker Tolu Latu has forced his way in.
Latu has been in top form for the NSW Country Eagles in the Buildcorp National Rugby Championship, as they top the ladder after four straight wins to open the competition.
It’s not the first time Latu has been named in a Wallabies squad after a broken arm ruined his chances in 2014. His inclusion this time comes after fellow hooker Tatafu PolotaNau wasn’t considered for selection.
Winger Drew Mitchell will fly back to France to continue the Top 14 season with club Toulon as he and backrower Ben McCalman seek match fitness on their return from injury.
Cheika said players were all being managed so they could be at their best for the final two legs of the Rugby Championship. “It is disappointing for Tatafu, who has been one of the most consistent and valued members of our finishers off the bench; he needs time to get his body right and we respect that,” Cheika said.
“We’re happy with how Drew and Ben are progressing. The best thing for both players is to play some regular rugby to get back to full form. With injury comes opportunity, and this is the opportunity now for Tolu to make his step up to International rugby.
“All our newly capped players this season have taken their chances with both hands and I expect Tolu to do the same, which should give all our fans confidence in the future.”
Brumbies prop Allan Alaalatoa has overcome his knee injury to be named in the squad after he missed the 36-20 win over Argentina in Perth.
It’s also a recall for Reds scrumhalf Nick Frisby, who hasn’t featured for the Wallabies since the June Test series against England where he made his International debut.
The Wallabies have won 10 out the last 15 fixtures against the Boks, but have not won in South Africa since August 2011 (at Kings Park 14-9).
The Qantas Wallabies will continue their Rugby Championship campaign against South Africa at Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria on Saturday, October 1, before taking on Argentina at Twickenham, London on Sunday, October 9. – ANA