MADE THE CUT
Adam Ashley-Cooper (midfield) – The veteran clocked up ample game time for the Waratahs on his return from Japan but failed to ignite their stodgy back play. Some thought his late bench appearance at Eden Park would be a Test farewell.
Jordan Petaia (midfield) – The ultimate World Cup punt. He hadn’t yet turned 19 when his Super Rugby season crashed to a halt two games in, on March 2. He’s only just returned to fitness.
Rob Simmons (lock) – Must have thought his chances were torpedoed as the Wallabies coaches spoke about luring Will Skelton from England. Prayers that they named four locks were also answered.
Jordan Uelese (hooker) – Hasn’t started a Test, possibly because of rotten injury luck. Michael Cheika is a stated admirer and he’s got the nod as a third rake.
MISSED THE CUT
Tom Banks (fullback) – A spectacular performer at times for the Brumbies and was solid as the starting No.15 in the year’s first Test. A victim of the focus on midfield backs rather than those further out.
Joe Powell (halfback) – Cheika has taken a gamble on just two halfbacks and the smooth-passing link man pays the price.
Pete Samu (loose forward) – One of the premier Brumbies performers on their late-season charge to Australian Conference honours. Picked up a hamstring niggle that may have counted against him, along with the selection of just five loose forwards.
Tatafu Polota-Nau (hooker) – The 34-year-old was favoured for a third World Cup on the back of his experience but three young rivals got the nod, probably ending his 89-Test career.