COOPER ANSWERS THE CALL FOR WALLABIES
QUADE Cooper’s rollercoaster international career has been resurrected.
The maligned playmaker will wear the Wallabies’ No.10 jersey for the first time in 1541 days, with Dave Rennie going for broke against the Springboks.
Noah Lolesio, who had worn the jersey in the past six matches, has been dropped.
The 21-year-old is being given a breather, and a chance to reset after an up-and-down Bledisloe series, where he was asked to take on the All Blacks in only his second season of professional rugby.
James O’connor is back training with the Wallabies but, after missing the past three months, selectors believed he needed another week of training before being eligible for selection.
Despite Reece Hodge being an option, selectors have turned back the clock, giving Cooper another chance four years after his last Test, when he came off the bench against Italy in Brisbane.
It is an extraordinary turn of events for a player who has had an extraordinary career, consisting of more highs and lows of which most people could dream.
The 33-year-old will play his 71st Test more than a decade after coming off the bench against Italy to make his debut in 2008.
“We’re thrilled for Quade that he’s earned another opportunity to pull on the gold jersey for his country,” Rennie said.
“He’s had a really positive impact since joining the group, put pressure on us as selectors and he’s excited to get out there and perform on Sunday night.”
In his 50th match, Hodge will provide cover for Cooper after being named in the No.22 jersey, while Jordan Petaia has also been included in the team.
The match will also be Michael Hooper’s 58th as Wallabies captain, as he draws equal with George Gregan’s record.
“The match is also a huge occasion for our leader Michael Hooper,” Rennie said.
“He’s been in phenomenal form and to equal George Gregan’s record as the most Tests as captain of Australia is a testament to his leadership and resilience.”
Centre Samu Kerevi, who was called up for his first match since the 2019 World Cup in the 38-21 loss to New Zealand in Perth last weekend, keeps his place, as does fullback Tom Banks despite poor recent form. Loose-head prop Angus Bell will start for the first time, joining hooker Folau Fainga’a and tighthead prop Allan Alaalatoa in the front row.
Izack Rodda earns a starting berth in the second row alongside Matt Philip, while the back row of Lachlan Swinton, Rob Valetini and Hooper is unchanged.
Hooker Feleti Kaitu’u is one of two potential debutants named on the bench with flanker Rob Leota as Australia seeks its first win of the tournament.
“We also can’t overlook Allan and Reece who will bring up 50 Tests for their country, another outstanding achievement for two professionals who leave it all on the field every time they wear the jersey,” Rennie said.