Adam Ashley-Cooper has been moved to the wing as a replacement for the disgraced James O’Connor in Australia’s side to face South Africa at Newlands in Cape Town tomorrow.
The move is one of three changes in the Australia backline announced by coach Ewen McKenzie, who has made six changes in total.
O’Connor has been replaced in the starting side by centre Tevita Kuridrani, who will take over the number 13 jersey, with Ashley-Cooper switching to the wing.
ACT Brumbies flyer Joe Tomane has also been included on the other wing in the place of Nick Cummins.
Australia captain James Horwill returns from injury to take over from Kane Douglas at lock, the only other change from the side that beat Argentina 14-13 last time out.
New Zealand have recalled hooker Andrew Hore for tomorrow’s clash against Argentina in La Plata after resting the 35-year-old for the home victory over South Africa.
Aaron Cruden replaces injured outhalf Dan Carter in the only other change to the starting side that beat the Springboks 29-15 at Eden Park earlier this month.
AUSTRALIA: I Folau; A Ashley-Cooper, T Kuridrain, C Leali'ifano, J Tomane; Q Cooper, N White; J Slipper, S Moore, B Alexander, R Simmons, J Horwill (capt), S Fardy, M Hooper, B Mowen. Replacements: S Fainga'a, B Robinson, S Kepu, S timani, B McCalman, W Genia, M Toomua, C Feauai-Sautia.
NEW ZEALAND: I Dagg; B Smith, C Smith, M Nonu, J Savea; A Cruden, A Smith; T Woodcock, A Hore, O Franks, B Retallick, S Whitelock, L Messam, S Cane, K Read (capt). Replacements: K Mealamu, W Crockett, C Faumuina, J Thrush, S Luatua, T Kerr-Barlow, B Barrett, C Piutau.
