The Wallabies are set to get a double-dose of experience with the return of Nic White and Marika Koroibete to the starting lineup for the clash with the Springboks in Perth on Saturday.
Reeling from a heavy defeat to the Boks in the opening round of the Rugby Championship in Brisbane, the Wallabies are reportedly set to make several changes to their matchday squad for the rematch at the Optus Stadium.
According to a report by Australian website The Roar, veteran backs White and Koroibete, who both sat out the loss in Brisbane, will be recalled to the starting lineup.
White is set to replace Jake Gordon, who picked up a knock, as the starting scrumhalf and partner Noah Lolesio, who will retain the No 10 jersey.
The 34-year-old is renowned for his gamesmanship and was slammed for his simulation which led to Faf de Klerk getting yellow carded during Australia’s 25-17 win in Sydney in 2022.
This time, White will be up against Test rookie Morne van den Berg, who makes his first start for the Springboks.
Japan-based wing Koroibete will replace the injured Filipo Daugunu, who took a heavy knock to his leg in the first half of last weekend’s match in Brisbane.
Koroibete will resume his rivalry with Makazole Mapimpi, after the two went toe-to-toe in a couple of heated duels in 2022.
In a much-needed boost to the Wallabies pack, which was dominated in Brisbane, loosehead prop Angus Bell is fit again and will start after recovering from a toe injury.
Meanwhile, Joe Schmidt is also reportedly set to give a debut to up-and-coming outside back Max Jorgensen.
The 19-year-old Waratahs speedster was set to make his Test debut under Eddie Jones last year, only for a training ground injury to rule him out of the World Cup.
Keo & Zels will be joined by DHL @THESTORMERS Director of Rugby John Dobson and @PercyMonty15 to watch the Boks take on the Wallabies in Perth!
Join us for a great day at the @ArnistonHotel! pic.twitter.com/2sErnZ4nfs
— SA Rugby magazine (@SARugbymag) August 12, 2024
Photo: Photo: Mark Kolbe/Getty Images