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Wallabies lose star for Springboks Test

By Online Editors
David Pocock. Photo / Getty Images

Wallabies number eight David Pocock has been withdrawn from Saturday night’s clash against South Africa after failing to overcome a neck injury sustained in the second Bledisloe Cup clash in Auckland.

Pocock has been replaced in the starting side by Pete Samu, who will earn his first Test start when he runs out at Suncorp Stadium tomorrow night.

The Wallabies currently sit fourth on the Rugby Championship standings after back-to-back defeats to New Zealand to open their 2018 campaign.

Australia and South Africa have been fiercely competitive in recent match-ups, after playing out two draws in 2017.

The Wallabies and Springboks last met in Brisbane in 2016 when Australia edged home 23-17.

WALLABIES

1. Scott Sio, 2. Tatafu Polota-Nau, 3. Allan Alaalatoa, 4. Rory Arnold, 5. Adam Coleman, 6. Lukhan Tui, 7. Michael Hooper (C), 8. Pete Samu, 9. Will Genia, 10. Kurtley Beale, 11. Marika Koroibete, 12. Matt Toomua, 13. Reece Hodge, 14. Dane Haylett-Petty, 15. Israel Folau.

Reserves: 16. Folau Faingaa, 17. Tom Robertson, 18. Taniela Tupou, 19. Izack Rodda, 20. Ned Hanigan, 21. Joe Powell, 22. Bernard Foley, 23. Jack Maddocks.

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