Thursday 20 November 2014 10:48, UK
Fiji-born winger Henry Speight will make his Test debut for Australia in Saturday’s showdown with Ireland in Dublin.
Speight qualified for Australia on residency grounds in September but a hamstring injury prevented him from playing for the Wallabies during the Rugby Championship.
His inclusion in place of ACT Brumbies team-mate Joe Tomane is one of four changes to the Australian starting side that were beaten 29-26 by France in Paris last weekend.
Matt Toomua returns at inside centre for his Brumbies team-mate Christian Lealiifano, while Luke Jones will make his first start at blindside flanker in place of fellow Melbourne Rebel Sean McMahon.
Sam Carter is back in the second row at the expense of former skipper James Horwill.
Versatile back Kurtley Beale, controversially recalled to the squad despite his part in a text message scandal that resulted in the departure of previous coach Ewen McKenzie, has been named on an extended bench from which three players will be omitted.
Coach Michael Cheika said: "Henry has done all the right things to earn his selection, has had an outstanding Super Rugby season and deserves his opportunity to play for Australia.
"He is very passionate about representing Australia and we're all looking forward to seeing him bring his best attributes to our game.
"All our changes will bring a new energy into the team and I know everyone is looking forward to the opportunities our match against Ireland will bring."
Australia won the first Test of their tour 33-28 against Wales in Cardiff and will head home after taking on England at Twickenham on November 29.
Australia: 15 Israel Folau, 14 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 13 Tevita Kuridrani, 12 Matt Toomua, 11 Henry Speight, 10 Bernard Foley, 9 Nick Phipps; 1 James Slipper, 2 Saia Faingaa, 3 Sekope Kepu, 4 Sam Carter, 5 Rob Simmons, 6 Luke Jones, 7 Michael Hooper (capt), 8 Ben McCalman.
Replacements (from): James Hanson, Tetera Faulkner, Benn Robinson, Ben Alexander, James Horwill, Will Skelton, Jake Schatz, Will Genia, Quade Cooper, Rob Horne, Kurtley Beale.
Watch Ireland v Australia live on Sky Sports 2 from 4pm on Saturday.
