Karmichael Hunt was a surprise omission from an experienced Wallabies team named Thursday to face the All Blacks this weekend in what will be Stephen Moore’s last home Test.
One of the stars of Australia’s home series in June, Hunt had been recalled to an extended squad after eight weeks on the sidelines for Saturday’s game in Brisbane following ankle surgery.
He was widely expected to be on the bench, but coach Michael Cheika opted not to risk him with Samu Kerevi included as cover for the centre positions in the dead rubber match.
Lock Rob Simmons comes in as the only change to the team that beat Argentina 37-20 a fortnight ago, replacing Izack Rodda who underwent season-ending shoulder surgery on Wednesday.
Retiring former captain Moore was named among the reserves for what will be his last Test on Australian soil and his 125th overall — and in front of his home crowd.
The veteran hooker will end his international career after Australia’s European tour in November.
The All Blacks have already secured the Bledisloe Cup, winning the first two matches in the three-Test series against Australia, although Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium is traditionally a difficult venue for them.
Of five matches there over the past 11 years, the All Blacks have lost one, drawn one, and won three but never by more than a four-point margin.
Australia (15-1): Israel Folau; Marika Koroibete, Tevita Kuridrani, Kurtley Beale, Reece Hodge; Bernard Foley, Will Genia; Sean McMahon, Michael Hooper, Jack Dempsey; Adam Coleman, Rob Simmons; Sekope Kepu, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Scott Sio.
Replacements: Stephen Moore, Tom Robertson, Allan Alaalatoa, Lukhan Tui, Ned Hanigan, Nick Phipps, Samu Kerevi, Henry Speight.
– Agence France-Presse
