Australia coach Michael Cheika has strongly defended his decision to keep Israel Folau at full‑back, while backing the midfield pairing of Quade Cooper and Bernard Foley to make an impact against South Africa tomorrow night.
Folau has started at full‑back for the Wallabies in all but five of his 43 Tests, establishing himself as one of the best 15s in international rugby.
Retired Australia international and broadcaster, Rod Kafer, has previously called for Folau to be used at inside centre, arguing his ball‑carrying ability and size would make a similar impact in attack to what New Zealand's Sonny Bill Williams has achieved in the 15‑man code.
Wallabies supporters also seem keen on the idea of Folau moving to the centres, as he was named at 13 in the Rugby Union Players' Association People's Choice Team of the Year.
But Cheika, who first coached Folau at the Waratahs when he made his professional rugby debut in 2013, feels there is little reason to switch Folau from full‑back.
The Wallabies host the Springboks at 10.05pm tomorrow while the All Blacks host Argentina at 7.35pm.
Source: ABC
