Three rookies to start for Aussies

– Jack Dempsey, Marika Koroibete and Izack Rodda will make their first starts for Australia in the Rugby Championship clash against South Africa tomorrow, with coach Michael Cheika saying the trio had earned their places.

Flanker Dempsey will replace Ned Hanigan, while Koroibete will pick up his second cap on the wing instead of Henry Speight. Rodda takes over from Rob Simmons among the locks.

The 23-year-old Dempsey has made a strong comeback since missing much of the Super Rugby season with a broken foot and is expected to add a fiery streak to the pack.

“The eyes roll in the back of the head with Jack, if you know what I mean,” Cheika said.

Rodda continues a whirlwind start to his career after making his Reds debut earlier this year and winning a first cap off the bench against the All Blacks in Dunedin last month. –