Cheika brings back his big guns

AUSTRALIA coach Michael Cheika has recalled a quartet of experienced overseas-based players, led by Matt Giteau, and included four uncapped players in a 36-man training squad for the Rugby Championship.

Centre Giteau was called up despite Australian media reports that Toulon were trying to block the move. Other overseas-based players included were utility back Adam Ashley-Cooper, scrum-half Will Genia and winger Drew Mitchell.

Cheika did not bring the quartet back for the 3-0 June series against England, but they will be in contention to face New Zealand in back-to-back Tests next month.

“All of our eligible Europeanbased players expressed a desire to play for the Wallabies during the Rugby Championship and that experience is invaluable,” Cheika said. “We have a very clear purpose in this team and we are prepared to work very hard to respect that purpose.”

Fly-half Quade Cooper, who has signed a three-year deal with the Australian Rugby Union after cutting short his spell in France, was also included.

Former Gloucester centre Billy Meakes has been called up to the squad following his switch to Western Force in June. Meakes, 25, said: “It’s been a bit of a whirlwind. It is only the first step, but just to be in the system and be among those type of players and coaches ... you can’t ask for much more.”

Australia kick off their campaign against New Zealand on August 20. Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Adam Coleman, Kane Douglas, Scott Fardy, James Hanson, Michael Hooper, Sekope Kepu, Ben McCalman, Sean McMahon, Stephen Moore, Dean Mumm, David Pocock, Tatafu PolotaNau, Tom Robertson, Rob Simmons, Scott Sio, Will Skelton, James Slipper, Toby Smith, Lopeti Timani.

Backs: Adam Ashley-Cooper, Quade Cooper, Israel Folau, Bernard Foley, Nick Frisby, Will Genia, Matt Giteau, Dane Haylett-Petty, Reece Hodge, Rob Horne, Samu Kerevi, Tevita Kuridrani, Drew Mitchell, Luke Morahan, Nick Phipps, Matt Toomua