Rugby league convert Eto Nabuli receives call-up to make his Wallabies debut against Scotland
Australia coach Michael Cheika has made just one change to his starting line-up to face Scotland
©PA
Fiji-born former St George Illawarra Dragons winger Eto Nabuli has seen his jump from rugby league to union prove successful after receiving a call-up to make his Wallabies debut after being named in Michael Cheika’s starting XV to face Scotland at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium.
Nabuli will replace two-try star and fellow Fijian flyer Henry Speight, who has been ruled out with a hamstring injury after Saturday's 37-14 win over the Fijians in Melbourne.
Michael Hooper will again lead the side with national captain Stephen Moore to fight it out with Tolu Latu for a spot among the reserves, which Cheika will announce on Friday.
Cheika said of Nabuli, 28, on www.rugby.com.au: "He's been very physical and been working hard so I thought it was a good opportunity to give him a reward.
"I think he's had that little bit more edge during the two weeks we've been together.
"He's really knuckled down on his knowledge - he's been very enthusiastic as well, some big strong running and I think he's merited the opportunity.
"Also throughout the season, I think his improvement from last year to this year has been excellent and I suppose that's a good form guide to when someone's improving."
Australia
Israel Folau, Dane Haylett-Petty, Tevita Kuridrani, Karmichael Hunt, Eto Nabuli, Bernard Foley, Will Genia; Tom Robertson, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Allan Alaalatoa, Sam Carter, Adam Coleman, Ned Hanigan, Michael Hooper (c), Scott Higginbotham.
Reserves: to be named Friday.
Scotland
Greig Tonks, Lee Jones, Alex Dunbar, Duncan Taylor, Rory Hughes, Finn Russell, Ali Price; Ryan Wilson, Hamish Watson, John Barclay (c), Jonny Gray, Ben Toolis, Zander Fagerson, Fraser Brown, Gordon Reid.
Reserves: Ross Ford, Allan Dell, Willem Nel, Tim Swinson, Josh Strauss, Henry Pyrgos, Ruaridh Jackson, Matt Scott.
