Share

Folau, Pocock 'couldn't do their jobs'

Teddington - Australia coach Michael Cheika said on Saturday he had no hesitation replacing the unfit Israel Folau and David Pocock in the side for the World Cup quarter-final with Scotland on Sunday.

Cheika said the decision for the game at Twickenham on Sunday was "not too difficult."

Star fullback Folau has an ankle injury while Pocock is struggling with a calf injury.

"They couldn't do their jobs and that's the key. You've got to be able to do your jobs in this team and I don't think either player could do it to their full potential," said Cheika.

Kurtley Beale will come in for Folau while Pocock's place goes to Ben McCalman.

"I know Pocock and Folau are great players but I really believe in the guys who are coming into their positions. That's something we want to build on," said Cheika.

"We'll just ask them to improve the team with what they bring and both have already made contributions to the side in this tournament. I'm sure they'll continue to contribute in spades," the coach said of the newcomers.

Cheika said he had been "working hard" since taking over the Wallabies 12 months ago to get strength in all positions.


We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1473 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2252 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE