Jones makes four changes to Wallabies - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Jones makes four changes to Wallabies

By Glenn Cullen 27/07/2005 10:25:51 PM Comments (0)

Wallabies coach Eddie Jones has come as close as he's likely to a radical team re-shuffle after making four changes for Australia's opening Tri Nations match against South Africa in Pretoria on Saturday.

Jones, who is usually fairly conservative with team selections when injuries don't force his hand, has reacted strongly to the Wallabies' highly disappointing 33-20 loss to the Springboks last Saturday.

There's been three changes in the Australian forwards, who were well outplayed at Ellis Park with Dan Vickerman replacing Mark Chisholm in the second row, Matt Dunning coming in for fellow prop Al Baxter and back-up No.8 John Roe squeezing Rocky Elsom out of blindside flanker.

Morgan Turinui replaces Stirling Mortlock at outside centre.

Vickerman's selection comes as no surprise after playing most of the second half in his return to rugby last week, but the other forward selections are something of a bolt from the blue.

Roe, a regular No.8 with the Queensland Reds, has spent little time on the flank since Toutai Kefu left the sunshine state in 2004.

With Elsom dropping out of the 22 it's a gamble from Jones, who will gain more mobility but definitely lose a more viable third lineout jumper.

Fellow flanker Phil Waugh should see plenty of game time from the bench.

The lineout was one of Australia's Achilles heels last Saturday, the Wallabies at one stage losing four off their own throw in a row.

Jones said the Australians would have to pick up in two major areas at Loftus.

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