Australia coach Michael Cheika insists Wallabies are working on weaknesses ahead of Rugby World Cup bout with New Zealand
Australia coach Michael Cheika admits that his side still have areas of weakness as preparations intensify for their record-equalling fourth World Cup final appearance against New Zealand at Twickenham tomorrow.
Cheika has made one change from the starting XV which featured against Argentina in Sunday’s semi-final, with loose-head prop Scott Sio replacing James Slipper after recovering from an elbow injury.
Full-back Israel Folau has been included despite ongoing concerns over an ankle problem, while Matt Giteau, who was a replacement when Australia last reached the final in 2003, is set to start at inside-centre.
“This week we’ve had a strong focus on improving certain areas in our game where we feel we haven’t been at our best in previous matches,” said Cheika, “We still have lots of scope to improve and we’ll work on that before this next match.
“Our lads are learning to cherish each opportunity they have in the gold jersey. We’ll be doing our best to make Australia proud of its rugby team.”