Friday 31 July 2015 12:47, UK
Australia have recalled Wycliff Palu and Matt Giteau for their Rugby Championship decider against New Zealand on August 8.
No 8 Palu was rested for the victories over South Africa and Argentina and returns in place of Scott Higginbotham, while centre Giteau comes back into the fold after he missed the Test against the Pumas with a sternum injury with winger Nick Cummins dropping out.
Uncapped prop Toby Smith has been rewarded for his fine season with Melbourne Rebels and, with four props required on matchday, looks likely to make his debut against the All Blacks at ANZ Stadium in Sydney.
Flanker Michael Hooper is included in the squad and - currently at least - he will be available to feature after serving his one-week ban for striking Argentina’s Nicholas Sanchez in the head.
However, SANZAR have appealed against the decision and believe he should serve a longer ban so he could yet be ruled out.
Third-string hooker James Hanson was considered surplus to requirements for the Test on home soil.
Australia could win their first southern hemisphere title since 2011 if they can beat the world champions in the final round of the Rugby Championship, which is shortened this year because of this autumn’s World Cup.
Australia squad
Forwards: James Slipper, Scott Sio, Greg Holmes, Sekope Kepu, Toby Smith, Stephen Moore, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Rob Simmons, Will Skelton, James Horwill, Dean Mumm, Scott Fardy, Wycliff Palu, Ben McCalman, Sean McMahon, Michael Hooper, David Pocock.
Backs: Nick Phipps, Nic White, Bernard Foley, Quade Cooper, Matt Toomua, Matt Giteau, Christian Lealiifano, Kurtley Beale, Tevita Kuridrani, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Drew Mitchell, Joe Tomane, Henry Speight, Israel Folau
Watch Australia v New Zealand live on Sky Sports 3 on Saturday, August 8 from 10.30am
