Australia’s David Pocock, James Slipper and Israel Folau will face Argentina in the Rugby World Cup semi-final on Sunday after being declared fully fit.
Pocock returns to the starting XV having missed the quarter-final win over Scotland with injury, while the full-back Folau returns in place of Kurtley Beale.
The prop Slipper replace Scott Sio, who has failed to recover from a bruised elbow sustained against the Scots and Toby Smith has been added to the bench.
“James has been pushing for a starting spot with his performances as a finisher and I know he’ll take it with both hands,” said the Wallabies’ coach, Michael Cheika. “James is a leader in our squad and has performed well through this tournament so far and in the lead-up matches.
“This weekend is a great opportunity for the lads to improve on last week and take advantage of the chance to play on such a big stage. This weekend we want to make Australia proud of their team.”
Australia team
Folau; Ashley-Cooper, Kuridrani, Giteau, Mitchell; Foley, Genia; Slipper, Moore, Kepu, Douglas, Simmons, Fardy, Hooper, Pocock.
Replacements Polota-Nau, Smith, Holmes, Mumm, McCalman, Phipps, Toomua, Beale.
