Wales v Australia: Israel Folau a centre option for Wallabies in Cardiff

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Israel Folau in action against WalesImage source, Getty Images
Image caption,

Israel Folau has played rugby league and Australian rules football as well as rugby union

Wales Under Armour Test series - Wales v Australia

Venue: Principality Stadium, Cardiff Date: Saturday, 5 November Kick-off: 14:30 GMT

Coverage: Live BBC Wales television and radio commentary; also on the BBC Sport website and app, plus live text commentaries

Australia could move full-back Israel Folau to centre against Wales in Cardiff on Saturday.

With Samu Kerevi out of the tour, the Wallabies have a selection issue at outside centre.

It means Australia could have a new centre partnership against Welsh pair Jamie Roberts and Jonathan Davies, who have played together 48 times.

"Definitely Izzy's an option for us at centre," said backs coach Nathan Gray.

"Izzy's comfortable in the front line, he's comfortable in the backfield as well.

"In the game against New Zealand he touched the ball the most he has in any game this year.

"The opportunity to get him the ball is something that we focus on."

Media caption,

Wales ‘can’t dwell’ on Warburton absence

Folau has scored three tries in three games against Wales, who have lost their last 11 meetings with the Wallabies.

If they were to move Folau into midfield, it could mean a switch to full-back for Dane Haylett-Petty who has been playing on the wing.

Sefanaia Naivalu is another option at full-back, with Tevita Kuridrani a proven operator at outside centre.

Australia name their team to play Wales at 12:00 GMT on Thursday - an hour after Wales announce their line-up.

Coach Michael Cheika will be forced into a change in the back row from the side which lost 37-10 to New Zealand with flanker Dean Mumm suspended.

That could mean a start for Michael Pocock, who was a replacement against New Zealand, though Scott Fardy may get the nod because he offers a lineout option.

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