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Finally, we have some idea as to who will make up the Wallabies backline against the Lions! Now there is no more confusion as to who will be there, just where they will play.
Although no doubt some Roarers will continue to pile on hundreds more comments on top of the several thousand that have been already proffered.
And it seems Quade Cooper will not start – much against lots of sound combination logic and even the likelihood that he would outperform his Lions counterparts.
No, Israel Folau has taken him out of the starting lineup. But Folau is not playing fly half, is he?
No, it is about who is certain to play and where to fit everyone.
Deans has a set of incumbents and returning proven stars. With no preparation Test to help the team gel, he will start with what he knows – as long as current form has a hint of reasonable.
These players will start: James O’Connor, Kurtley Beale, Adam Ashley Cooper and Digby Ioane.
Folau is also likely to start. Deans has said as much.
This group of seven has shifted the selection problems from 10 to 12, as Deans has declared JOC will play 10 or wing. Beale will be at 10 or fullback, depending if Folau has the confidence of the coach to be at the back.
McCabe looks most likely to slot into 12 if he hits even the slightest form.
So therefore, it looks like there is no place for Cooper. This is despite his combination with Genia at Super Rugby level.
How could QC get in the team? He would have to have a blinder against the Lions when playing for the Reds.
Otherwise only off-field indiscretions or injuries will change things.
As a Reds and a Cooper fan this is a disappointing prospect. But it may be for the greater good.
It is not only a lower risk decision, but there is still a lot of potential for scintillating interplay between the likes of JOC, Beale, Ioane and Folau.
Now if the forwards can stand up in set pieces I see a famous series win.
Bring it on! So this is my likely Wallabies backline.
Can Roarers get behind this setup?
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.