It has been asked already but how many games has Horne played these past two seasons? For me, he is held in such high regard for his Super 14 performances of more than two seasons ago when he revealed himself as a fine talent and a strong prospect at Test level. For me he is the Australian version of Richard Kahui; he is a great talent but has a body of glass. But, unlike Kahui, he is unproven at test level.
It goes without saying that Deans will pick whomever he believes gives Australia the best chance to lift Bill in a tournament that starts in 50 days. He'd be taking a significant risk in trying to blood a new 12 (McCabe) and then attempting to marry that 12 in a new midfield partnership later on with Horne. IMO, it's time to build the combinations now and getting them firing, and to get the supporting players tuned to produce if called upon. I just can't see how Horne can be ready to contribute, and am not sure that giving him precious game time is warranted when there are more "proven" performers waiting in the wings.