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Rugby: Quade will have no issues - McKenzie

First five-eighths Quade Cooper says the hunger has always been there to play for Australia. Picture / Sarah Ivey
First five-eighths Quade Cooper says the hunger has always been there to play for Australia. Picture / Sarah Ivey

Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie insists Quade Cooper can prove he has no issues performing on centre-stage against the All Blacks.

Cooper's expected to return to the starting line-up for this weekend's Bledisloe Cup test in Dunedin, replacing first-five Matt Toomua.

Toomua's likely to shift to second-five for the injured Christian Leali'ifano.

Captain James Horwill says they're adapting slowly to McKenzie's systems, which he's experienced for years at the Reds.

"The more time we spend together, and understand what the roles are and what's expected of guys, I think he's working well for us.

"That can serve us well - a new coach and a new regime.''

The Wallabies are seeking to win two matches in a row for the first time this year.

James Horwill says their recent convincing victory over Argentina has provided motivation.

"The guys are aware of the test that's ahead of us, and I think we're in the mindset of working really hard to get the result we're looking for.

"We want to go there to win, and that's what we're focused on.''

- Newstalk ZB

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