I note that when people are arguing against starting both Hooper and Pocock, no one is suggesting we start Mumm at 6 which would seem the most likely based on teams selected this year.
Fardy's form is improving but I would be quite surprised if Mumm misses the 23 entirely this weekend. Seems he is the reserve lineout caller after Simmons.
No doubt in my mind Hooper and Pocock will start. Neither will be "rested".
All things being equal and Chek's past preference, Hooper will play 7.
So Pocock either plays 6 or 8. Who misses ot, Timani or Fardy/Mumm.
Timani has gone pretty well and probably should hold his spot but Chek has a lot of faith in Mumm so it wouldn't be a surprise to see Mumm start.
Tight five should be as expected with Sio, Moore and Keps and Simmons and Arnold taking the lock spots. I really think that forward dominance will go a long way to winning the game.
I am wondering whether Quade will even make the bench for this match.
This will be our toughest match of the tour, so far. A win is desperately important, a win with no more injuries.