Reece Hodge named in Australia line up for England clash

Australia head coach Dave Rennie has recalled Reece Hodge into the starting line up for the third and final Test against England to be played in Sydney next weekend.

Hodge will start at fullback and will form a formidable back three combination along with wings Marika Koroibete and Tom Wright.

Nick Frost will make his first Test start and will be part of the second row that also has Matt Philip with Harry Wilson on his 11th Test will form the back row along with skipper Michael Hooper and number eight Rob Valetini.

James Slipper will return to a familiar loosehead role with the front row also comprising David Porecki and Taniela Tupou.Brumbies duo Nic White and Noah Lolesio will partner in the halves for the third consecutive time with the midfield also remaining unchanged with Hunter Paisami and Samu Kerevi retaining their positions.

Suli Vunivalu is set to make his debut from the bench that also has Len Ikitau and Tate McDermott.

“Harry and Reece are both super excited to wear the Wallaby gold for the first time this year and have trained extremely well,” he said.

“We know we’re a much better team than how we played in Brisbane and we’ve had a good week of preparation which will allow us to put in a performance that makes Australians proud on Saturday night.

“As a squad we have an opportunity to go to Sydney and lift some silverware in a series decider and that’s something that highly motivates us.”

Australia XV: 15. Reece Hodge, 14. Tom Wright, 13. Hunter Paisami, 12. Samu Kerevi, 11. Marika Koroibete, 10. Noah Lolesio, 9. Nic White, 1. James Slipper 2. David Porecki, 3. Taniela Tupou 4. Nick Frost, 5. Matt Philip, 6. Harry Wilson, 7. Michael Hooper (captain), 8. Rob Valetini.

Replacements: 16. Folau Faingaa, 17. Angus Bell, 18. Allan Alaalatoa, 19. Rob Leota, 20. Pete Samu, 21. Tate McDermott, 22. Len Ikitau, 23. Suliasi Vunivalu.