Backroom boys backed by Cheika

COACH: WHY DO I BELIEVE IN THEM? I’VE SEEN THEM DO IT

Sydney

Michael Cheika defended the Wallabies coaching team after a miserable season yesterday as he prepared for another tough assignment against the All Blacks next week in Japan.

Cheika, who named three uncapped players in his squad, has some breathing space after Australia’s stunning comeback from 24 points down at half-time to beat Argentina 45-34 in Salta earlier this month.

There had been growing calls for the coach to be axed after six losses in eight matches this season ahead of the trip to South America.

Cheika is due to meet Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle and other officials today, to outline his plan through to next year’s World Cup in Japan.

But he said suggestions of an independent selector or coaching consultant were wide off the mark, and threw his support behind backs coach Stephen Larkham, defence coach Nathan Grey and forwards coach Simon Raiwalu.

“Why do I believe in them? Well, I’ve seen them do it,” he said.

“But what is important to note is that we do need to make some changes perhaps in ourselves and how we operate,” Cheika added, admitting the team needed more consistency.

“We’ve been inconsistent, the big thing is around what technique we need to be consistent,” he said.

“In a relatively inexperienced young group (of players), consistency is always an issue. But I believe in them.”

Waratahs lock Jed Holloway earned his first call-up after an impressive Super Rugby season, while team-mate and scrumhalf Jake Gordon and Rebels flanker Angus Cottrell also got the nod.

The untried trio will be hoping to force their way into the squad for the November Tests in Europe and make a late push for consideration for next year’s World Cup.

Reds centre Samu Kerevi also makes his return in the 31-man squad after missing the entire Rugby Championship with a bicep injury. –