Wallabies make changes for Tri-Nations opener against Springboks - Rugby News
Wallabies have made a number of changes in their team after the humiliating defeat by Samoa on July 17, in Sydney. They have called back Will Genia, Quade Cooper, James O’Connor and David Pocock to take on the South African side in the opening clash of the forthcoming Tri-Nations Cup. The head coach of Australia, Robbie Deans, made the announcement of fresh changes in his side on July 19 in front of the media.
Wallabies had rested these players from their last test against Samoa and the decision cost them one of the worst defeats of their history. Wallabies made seven changes in their team for the highly anticipated match against the world number three team, Springboks. Among the other changes Matt Giteau has been discarded from the team whereas Robb Simmons and James Horwill have been considered for the contest. James Horwill and David Pocock have returned to their side after recovering from various injuries.
Robbie Deans has also made a few changes in their starting lineup as he puts James Horwill and Robb Simmons to the second row for Australia. Talking to reporters, coach Deans defended his decision to rest seasoned campaigners from their last match against Samoa. He said that after the lengthy season of Super Rugby 15, some players deserve the rest for a better output in Tri-Nations Cup.
However, Deans admitted that his side had failed to deliver against the weaker side of Samoa. He added that, “Last Sunday was a massive wake up call for the group. We can't turn back the clock on that performance, it will stay with us as a reminder, but we do have total control as to how we respond. Our standards were inadequate for what is required at test level and we paid the price.”
He also said that, “There are no short cuts in test rugby. There is no substitute for rolling up the sleeves and doing the little tasks that, while they might not carry the glamour, are critical for the overall success of the team.”
The opening match of the Tri-Nations Cup 2011 will be played between Australia and South Africa on July 23.
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