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However, Australia are poised to shift from a traditional 5-3 bench split to a 6-2 configuration, which is an indication Schmidt is preparing for a tighter, more physical contest in wet conditions. Early forecasts suggest up to 10 millimetres of rain could fall on game day.
Utility Ben Donaldson, named on the bench in Brisbane, is likely to remain as playmaker cover for Lynagh.
“I love a good 6-2 split,” Phipps said. “It’s going to be wet down there in Melbourne this weekend and there was a lot of physicality playing quite tight [in Brisbane], so I think bringing that bench in to add impact is a good idea.”
Second-rower Will Skelton is fit and ready for a return, while questions remain over Rob Valetini’s fitness.
Hooker Dave Porecki, who suffered a concussion against Fiji, is also in contention for a return. Australia’s lineout was poor on the weekend and Porecki is considered the squad’s best thrower.
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“His lineout throwing is always immaculate and he’s a big physical boy,” Phipps said of Porecki. “He throws himself into the contact area so a bit more punch if he gets an opportunity.
“But besides that, I always like how Joe backs his players. Whether or not we think the centre combinations are working at the moment, for me, I like how Joe is backing them at the moment.”
However, Australia are poised to shift from a traditional 5-3 bench split to a 6-2 configuration, which is an indication Schmidt is preparing for a tighter, more physical contest in wet conditions. Early forecasts suggest up to 10 millimetres of rain could fall on game day.
Utility Ben Donaldson, named on the bench in Brisbane, is likely to remain as playmaker cover for Lynagh.
“I love a good 6-2 split,” Phipps said. “It’s going to be wet down there in Melbourne this weekend and there was a lot of physicality playing quite tight [in Brisbane], so I think bringing that bench in to add impact is a good idea.”
Second-rower Will Skelton is fit and ready for a return, while questions remain over Rob Valetini’s fitness.
Hooker Dave Porecki, who suffered a concussion against Fiji, is also in contention for a return. Australia’s lineout was poor on the weekend and Porecki is considered the squad’s best thrower.
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“His lineout throwing is always immaculate and he’s a big physical boy,” Phipps said of Porecki. “He throws himself into the contact area so a bit more punch if he gets an opportunity.
“But besides that, I always like how Joe backs his players. Whether or not we think the centre combinations are working at the moment, for me, I like how Joe is backing them at the moment.”
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