White returns as Wallabies change three

Wallaby scrumhalf Nic White, who secured the crucial turnover that gave Quade Cooper his match-winning penalty on Sunday, will return to the Australian starting line-up for the return game against the Springboks in Brisbane on Saturday.

White, whose impact on the field was inspiring for the Australians, is one of three changes Dave Rennie made to the side ahead of a potential Bok backlash this weekend with the world champions disappointed at scoring three tries to one but losing the game.

Taniela Tupou, who most felt got away with driving in in the final scrums, has been selected at tighthead for the match at Suncorp stadium, a ground where the Springboks have a horrible record at.

James Slipper will also return to the front row with Allan Alaalatoa, who got his 50th cap last week, returning to Canberra for the birth of his child.

Quade Cooper will continue at flyhalf and there is no space for James O’Connor, who was expected to return to the starting line-up this week.

The Wallabies have a five-year, nine-game winning streak at the stadium and will be tested by the World Champions’ resolve after losing last weekend.

Suncorp Stadium has proven a happy hunting ground for the Wallabies in recent years, with Australia having won eight straight tests at the venue since 2016. A victory against the reigning world champions on Saturday night would also secure the Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate for the Wallabies.

Wallaby captain Michael Hooper will move past George Gregan’s record of caps as captain with his 59th time leading the side, and received praise from Rennie.

“It’s an incredible milestone for Hoops on Saturday evening in Brisbane and it’s a testament to him as a person and a player.”

“I’ve been so impressed with his leadership both on and off the field and his drive to be better every day.

“We were really proud of the effort from our men last Sunday and we’re well aware of the ferocity that a wounded Springboks outfit will bring to Suncorp Stadium.”

Wallabies to face Springboks: Tom Banks, Andrew Kellaway, Len Ikitau, Samu Kerevi, Marika Koroibete; Quade Cooper, Nic White; Rob Valetini, Michael Hooper (captain), Lachlan Swinton, Matt Philip, Izack Rodda, Taniela Tupou, Folau Fainga’a, James Slipper.

Replacements: Feleti Kaitu’u, Angus Bell, Tom Robertson, Darcy Swain, Pete Samu,Tate McDermott, Reece Hodge, Jordan Petaia