Tuesday 3 June 2014 05:32, UK
Will Genia has been axed from the Australia squad for Saturday's first Test against France in Brisbane.
Genia, who has won 55 caps and has previously skippered the Wallabies, is omitted in favour of Nic White and Nick Phipps.
White will start the match, forming a new-look half-back pairing with Bernard Foley, while Phipps will cover off the bench.
"We function in a performance environment and so it's important to reward those who have consistently played at a high level over the course of the season," said Australia coach Ewen McKenzie.
"This year we're in a particularly strong position whereby so many of our players have been performing well for their provinces.
"The margins are so small but it unfortunately does mean that quality players are going to miss out, which is the case for our opening Test against France."
Former skipper James Horwill and the versatile Kurtley Beale have to settle for a place on the bench, with Sam Carter handed his debut.
Wycliff Palu and James Slipper both win their 50th caps, while Stephen Moore will captain the side for the first time.
Australia: 15 Folau, 14 Ashley-Cooper, 13 Kuridrani, 12 Toomua, 11 Cummins, 10 Foley, 9 White, 1 Slipper, 2 Moore (capt), 3 Kepu, 4 Simmons, 5 Carter, 6 Fardy, 7 Hooper, 8 Palu.
Replacements: 16 Polota-Nau, 17 Cowan, 18 Ryan, 19 Horwill, 20 McCalman, 21 Phipps, 22 Beale
