I agree, I can't remember it working too many times either - although it did look good in Perth against the Poms. Here hoping it does work, because in theory it is a better combo that with Gits in the mix.
The problem always seems with Berrick at 12 that he doesn't have the running game required. As he is not very dynamic in contact, and doesn't have the speed to hit holes that he probably sees (as he has a very sound rugby mind). However his defense is excellent, and so too is his distribution. He also holds the ball in two hands, which a few of the other lads could take note of.
I always seemed to remember the BB at 10 and QC (Quade Cooper) at 12 not working so well - and that getting used the most - but the other way round being OK.
Queenslanders - Am I imagining it?
It's a big call to give Slipper a start against Lo Cicero and Castrogiovanni, 2 of the best and most experienced props in world rugby. If Slipper holds up here we know we will have a prop of high quality in the making.
Huzzah for Barnes getting promoted and Simmons getting a shot over Chisholm. Giteau, Chisholm and Robinson all needed wake up calls...well Chisholm just needs to get out of the side more to the point. Good on Burgess for truly earning a call up as well.
I can't say I'm surprised that changes were made but I won't be surprised if many of these changes are reversed next week for the French game.
Three of Daley, Slipper, Higgers, Sharpe and Simmons?
Interesting.
Edit, actually I'm not sure that Daley was at TSS.
No Mauro Bergamasco? Is he out of form or injured? He has been one of their best for a while.
Well these are the changes that we have mostly been screaming for (myself included). It will be interesting to see reactions after the game. Slipper and Barnes are the two who I'll be most keen to observe. Good games on the weekend could set them up for long term starting positions and give their rivals a bit of a rev up.
Had to give Slipper a start - has outperformed Benn R for weeks - rather see a tough and talented kid get a start than an incumbant not playing well (reckon Robo will now be motivated and we will see him back to his awesome best in 2011 in time for RWC - Barnes should stiffen the defence