The Rugby Championship
Wallabies won't hide Cooper
ESPN Staff
August 22, 2012
Australia's Quade Cooper in training, Sydney, Australia, August 15, 2012
Quade Cooper could be recalled by Australia on Saturday © PA Photos
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Quade Cooper is poised for a return to front-line action with Australia on Saturday, and he will be expected to shoulder his share of the defensive work if he gets the nod to face New Zealand in Auckland.

The Reds fly-half missed out on a place in the 22 for last weekend's Rugby Championship opener against the All Blacks in Sydney, with Berrick Barnes getting the nod at No.10 following a strong series against Wales in June.

After a demoralising 27-19 defeat though, the Wallabies may look to Cooper to deliver more spice in attack - although doubts remain about his defensive capabilities against the All Blacks' monster midfield of Sonny Bill Williams and Ma'a Nonu.

Australia coach Tony McGahan insists that if he is recalled, Cooper will take care of the fly-half channel after being unsuccessfully hidden at fullback on defence during the Rugby World Cup.

"He'll be defending at No.10. If he gets the opportunity on Saturday night I'm sure he's only too keen to get back out there and show what he's made of," McGahan told AAP

"That's what drives competitive players and what drives competitive people. It's not the external thing of proving other people wrong, you really want to prove it to yourself."

Australia are without skipper David Pocock for the game due to a knee injury, while there will also be a reshuffle in the front-row following an injury to tight-head Sekope Kepu.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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