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ESPN staff
Wallabies coach Michael Cheika has included uncapped backs Tom Banks and Jack Maddocks in his 28 player Bledisloe Cup squad ahead of next week’s opening Test.
Cheika named a trimmed squad on Sunday morning with experienced trio Scott Scio (shoulder), Michael Hooper (hamstring) and Dane Haylett-Petty (knee) all named in the side after passing fitness tests.
“We’ll have some extra players in there on Monday and Tuesday, so we can get our training done and then I just think that I want to have a bit more focus on the group that’s going to play the game,” Cheika said.
“I just think that little bit of extra focus on a smaller group of players in there can build our alignment and cohesion.
“Everyone’s focused on the one task, everyone knows what their role is.”
Banks impressed during the Wallabies’ trial match in Sydney last week, delivering a compelling plea for selection in the Bledisloe Cup opener.
Scoring one try and saving three, it was the fullback’s speed that truly impressed when he tore down field to complete two try-saving tackles against Moses Sorovi and Richard Hardwick after both looked destined to score.
The Wallabies have just completed a week long training camp in Cessnock and will regather at a fan day in Blacktown.
Wallabies squad:
Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Adam Coleman, Ned Hanigan, Michael Hooper, Sekope Kepu, Tolu Latu, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, David Pocock, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Tom Roberston, Izack Rodda, Pete Samu, Robb Simmons, Scott Sio, Lukhan Tui, Taniela Tupou.
Backs: Tom Banks, Kurtley Beale, Israel Folau, Beranrd Foley, Will Genia, Dane Haylett-Petty, Marika Koroibete, Jack Maddocks, Nick Phipps, Joe Powell, Matt Toomua.