AUSTRALIA HAVE MADE wholesale changes to their starting XV for Saturday’s crucial Rugby World Cup clash with England.
Coach Michael Cheika has made 14 changes to the side that thrashed Uruguay 65-3 in Pool A, reinstating the team that were too good for Fiji in their tournament opener.
Only Scott Sio has started in both of the Wallabies’ matches, and he retains his spot in the front row. Skipper Stephen Moore returns for what will be his 98th Test appearance, while vice-captains Adam Ashley-Cooper and Michael Hooper are also back for the Twickenham clash.
“We’ve been working hard each day this week to improve our game before we play England on Saturday,” Cheika said.
“I believe that this selection, the same starting team that ran out v Fiji, has been really clear on where we must improve and the level we must be at to compete with England and we know that it’s going to be a very tough challenge.
“The group is really committed to making all Australians truly proud of how we represent them at this Rugby World Cup and Saturday night will be another opportunity for us to do that.”
Cheika will name his eight-man bench later today.
Australia XV
15 Israel Folau
14 Adam Ashley-Cooper
13 Tevita Kuridrani
12 Matt Giteau
11 Rob Horne
10 Bernard Foley
9 Will Genia
1 Scott Sio
2 Stephen Moore
3 Sekope Kepu
4 Kane Douglas
5 Rob Simmons
6 Scott Fardy
7 Michael Hooper
8 David Pocock
