Walker, Rogers set for Wallaby bench role
June 11, 2002

Andrew Walker and Mat Rogers are set for places on the bench for the Wallaby clash with the New Zealand Maori this Saturday.

Both players completed their first training session today since arriving at Camp Wallaby in Coffs Harbour last Wednesday, after Walker overcame a calf strain and Rogers recovered from a nasty dose of tonsillitis.

However, coach Eddie Jones has stated that the starting line-up has already been decided suggesting both players will play a role from the bench when the actual side is announced on Wednesday.

ACT Brumbies Bill Young, Jeremy Paul and Ben Darwin are expected to start for the first time together in the Australian front row, with Justin Harrison and Nathan Sharpe the chosen locks.

The Perth clash will be the Wallabies` only run out before the first Test against France in Melbourne on June 22.

For that reason David Lyons could start ahead of George Smith at openside flanker, with Jones already aware of the latter`s capabilities.

Toutai Kefu, in need of a run after recovering from a knee injury, and Owen Finegan are expected to fill the other backrow positions.

Matt Burke`s elevation to vice captain makes him a definite starter, most likely at outside centre, with Daniel Herbert given a chance to impress at No.12, alongside Elton Flatley who will fill in for injured five-eighth Stephen Larkham.

Powerful wingers Wendell Sailor and Stirling Mortlock and Queensland fullback Chris Latham round out the side.

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