David Pocock ruled out of Brisbane clash

The Wallabies have been dealt a huge blow ahead of Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash with the Springboks after David Pocock was ruled out.

Pocock is sidelined with a neck injury and is replaced in the starting line-up by Pete Samu, who will make his first start for Australia.

Wallabies captain Michael Hooper admitted that Pocock’s absence would be a major setback to the team but had confidence in Samu.

“I’m very disappointed for David and the team, he’s been in outstanding form all year and he’s a big leader,” he told rugby.com.au.

“Even just for him – he really wants to be out there, he’s given himself every chance, he’s been ticking all the boxes but it hasn’t come to light.

“It’s unfortunate but Pete’s coming in and he’s been doing a great job in the cameos he’s been having off the bench.”

Samu comes straight into the XV ahead of replacement forward Ned Hanigan and fellow squad back-rower Caleb Timu, with Hooper keen to see what the Crusaders man can do on Saturday.

“It’s a different combination there of course. I’ve been very impressed with Pete and his performances throughout the year,” he said.

“It’s a straight swap just in terms of how our plays go and how we look to change the game.

“Without changing too much, he comes in and fits in that role nicely.”

Australia (revised): 15 Israel Folau, 14 Dane Haylett-Petty, 13 Reece Hodge, 12 Matt Toomua, 11 Marika Koroibete, 10 Kurtley Beale, 9 Will Genia, 8 Pete Samu, 7 Michael Hooper (c), 6 Lukhan Tui, 5 Adam Coleman, 4 Rory Arnold, 3 Allan Alaalatoa, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 Scott Sio
Replacements: 16 Folau Fainga’a, 17 Tom Robertson, 18 Taniela Tupou, 19 Izack Rodda, 20 Ned Hanigan, 21 Joe Powell, 22 Bernard Foley, 23 Jack Maddocks

Date: Saturday, September 8
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Kick-off: 20:00 local (11:00 BST, 10:00 GMT)
Referee: Glen Jackson (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: John Lacey (Ireland), Paul Williams (New Zealand)
TMO: Glenn Newman (New Zealand)

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