Phil Waugh: Traditional Wallabies back-row can win back Bledisloe Cup

Former Wallabies flanker Phil Waugh thinks Australia can win the opening two matches against New Zealand and claim back the Bledisloe Cup for the first time since 2002, if Michael Cheika opts for a more traditional back-row combination. “I’m very optimistic this year. I think we’re a very strong chance not just to win this week but to win the Bledisloe,” he said. David Pocock and Michael Hooper played alongside Scott Fardy at last year’s World Cup, however Waugh thinks Cheika needs to select a more physical back-row to play the Kiwis. “I wouldn't be surprised if he goes with Pocock, McCalman and Fardy,” Waugh said. “It depends what style he wants to play. We know Australia can play with two opensides, but I think he’ll go with the big bodies to start the game, then look to bring another openside on towards the end. “Most Test matches, particularly Bledisloe Cup games, are won in the final 20 minutes so I think adding that extra speed and potency in the second h
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