Australia has suffered a major blow to their Rugby World Cup plans with their two biggest ball carriers Will Skelton and Wycliff Palu ruled out of the entire tournament with injuries.
Hooker James Hanson will replace Palu, while Sam Carter takes the place of Skelton.
Instead of bringing in another backrower, Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has opted to select Hanson, after being criticised for not selecting a third hooker in his original 31‑man squad.
Hanson’s addition means there will be cover if skipper Stephen Moore or back‑up hooker Tatafu Polota‑Nau are injured in coming games.
Australia can end England’s World Cup hopes by defeating them this weekend.
England will face Australia at 7am Sunday while Tonga face Namibia at 3.45am tomorrow.
Source: foxsports.au
