Retiring scrum-half Nic White will play his final match for Australia in the third Test against the British & Irish Lions in Sydney on Saturday, as the Wallabies seek to avoid a first series whitewash since 1904.
White, 34, announced his retirement from international rugby on Thursday and has been handed the No 9 jersey for his 73rd cap by coach Joe Schmidt. The veteran said it was the right time to pass the baton to younger players like Jake Gordon and Tate McDermott.
“Pulling on the gold jersey was a dream of mine when I was a young boy in Scone and to say I’ve done it 72 times, with one last crack on Saturday night, is something I’m incredibly proud of,” White said. Schmidt described him as “the ultimate competitor” and a great man to have in the squad.
In team changes, Tom Lynagh retains the flyhalf berth, while Dylan Pietsch replaces the injured Harry Potter on the wing. In the forwards, Taniela Tupou comes in for Allan Alaalatoa (shoulder), and Tom Hooper replaces Rob Valetini (calf). Harry Wilson continues as captain.
The 83,000-capacity Accor Stadium is sold out for the clash. Schmidt said the squad had been deflated after the gut-wrenching loss in Melbourne but had gathered momentum and would be ready to go again.
