Fit-again Pocock and Folau boost Australia ahead of RWC semis

Duncan Bech 08:21 24/10/2015
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  • Returning: Key man Pocock.

    Australia’s chances of toppling Argentina in Sunday’s World Cup semi-final have improved after David Pocock and Israel Folau were passed fit for the Twickenham showdown.

    The pair were injured during the final group outing against Wales and were forced to sit out the 35- 34 victory over Scotland, but have recovered from their respective calf and ankle problems.

    Number eight Pocock has been among the players of the tournament due to his work at the breakdown – the number eight was a key component of the win against England – and Folau is one of the sport’s most dangerous runners from fullback. Ben McCalman and Kurtley Beale drop to the bench to make room for the returning duo. 

    The only disappointing element of an otherwise pleasing injury bulletin was prop Scott Sio’s failure to recover from his elbow complaint, so James Slipper starts at loosehead.

    “James has been pushing for a starting spot with his performances as a finisher and I know he’ll take it with both hands,” head coach Michael Cheika said.

    “James is a leader in our squad and has performed well through this tournament so far and in the lead-up matches.

    “This weekend is a great opportunity for the lads to improve on last week and take advantage of the chance to play on such a big stage. This weekend we want to make Australia proud of their team.”

    Openside Michael Hooper will make his 50th Test appearance and wing Drew Mitchell is just one try short of drawing level with Bryan Habana and Jonah Lomu as the leading World Cup leading try-scorer of all time.

    Hooper, who along with Pocock and fellow flanker Scott Fardy been pivotal in Australia’s winning streak, said he did not know what to expect of the Pumas.

    “We are looking forward to the Argentinian challenge and also guessing what they will bring to the party,” said Hooper. Wallabies skipper Stephen Moore added:

    “As a front rower the set piece, the scrum, the lineout and the driving maul will be huge weapons to counter. But they have developed a very attacking game, lots of flair and with a strong back three who are very creative.”

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