Slipper returns as Wallabies name side to face Fiji
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Wallabies prop James Slipper has given the side a major boost, cleared to return against Fiji in Saint Etienne on Monday morning (AEST).
Slipper has been dealing with a foot tendon problem, which kept him out of the previous matches against France and Georgia.
His return comes at a perfect time, with Taniela Tupou failing to overcome a hamstring injury.
Slipper will shift to tighthead prop, joining Angus Bell and Dave Porecki in the front-row, set to become the third Australian to play in four World Cup campaigns.
Nick Frost has also recovered from an ear injury, partnering captain Will Skelton in the only other change to the starting pack.
Jones has made one forced change to the backline, with Nic White replacing Tate McDermott (concussion).
Issak Fines-Leleiwasa comes onto the bench as a result, set for just his second cap.
Rebels hooker Jordan Uelese has also been named as part of the reserves, overcoming his own injury.
“Fiji is the most important match of our Rugby World Cup campaign," Jones said in a statement.
“It’s another big opportunity for our young side to keep getting better and we’ll be ready on Sunday.”
1 Angus Bell
2 David Porecki
3 James Slipper
4 Nick Frost
5 Will Skelton (c)
6 Tom Hooper
7 Fraser McReight
8 Rob Valetini
9 Nic White
10 Carter Gordon
11 Marika Koroibete
12 Samu Kerevi
13 Jordan Petaia
14 Mark Nawaqanitawase
15 Ben Donaldson
Replacements:
16 Jordan Uelese
17 Blake Schoupp
18 Zane Nonggorr
19 Richard Arnold
20 Robert Leota
21 Issak Fines-Leleiwasa
22 Lalakai Foketi
23 Suli Vunivalu