Wallabies coach Michael Cheika defends decision to play Pocock

Wallabies head coach Michael Cheika has defended his decision to start star Wallabies back rower David Pocock against England at Twickenham on Saturday despite the 30-year-old struggling with a neck problem.

Cheika insists the Wallabies would never allow David Pocock to risk his long-term health by playing with a serious neck injury.

Pocock has long been struggling with a neck problem and aggravated it again against Italy in Padova last weekend, which put him in doubt for the season finale against Eddie Jones' side.

The outstanding back-rower has been named in the starting line up despite having not fully trained this week.

Pocock will need to get through Friday's captain's run to cement his spot but Cheika said team doctor Nathan Gibbs, one of Australia's most experienced sports medics, had to agree before he could name Pocock.

"We're not scrappy, we're always making sure," Cheika said.

"We've got one of the best doctors in world sport in Nathan Gibbs. He's looked after players from all sports over I don't know how many years.

"He played himself at the top level, so he knows exactly what's required and he's the integral part of the decision-making process along with David."

Cheika said Pocock wouldn't miss a beat in his preparation.

"He has to get out and have a run tomorrow for sure and he will do that," he said.

"I think with a guy like David, he's very well prepared. I know he's missed training but he's the ultimate pro, he's been through it all."

Story via: Stuff.co.nz