Palu looms in possible Wallabies change

SYDNEY - Wallabies loose forwards Rocky Elsom and Scott Fava could be under threat, with Wycliff Palu touted as a possibility for the Tri-Nations rugby test against South Africa in Sydney on Saturday.

Test reserve Mark Chisholm is another in the mix after the Wallabies were comprehensively beaten at the breakdown in the 9-13 loss to New Zealand in Brisbane last Saturday.

The Daily Telegraph newspaper today reported that either Elsom or Fava could be the fall guy for the loss.

Elsom missed a crucial tackle on All Blacks winger Joe Rokocoko, who subsequently scored the only try of the match, and he has given away too many penalties in the Tri-Nations series this season.

The Telegraph suggested coach John Connolly could be ready to unleash powerhouse Waratahs player Wycliff Palu at No 8 against the Springboks.

Paul was rumoured to be a likely bench player against the All Blacks, only to be overlooked.

The key issue against him will be a lack of fitness because he has been hampered by injury this season.

However, he was the star in Australia A's recent 80-9 win over Fiji and his ball-carrying skills could add fresh impetus to the loose forward trio.

Alternatively, the selectors could opt for Chisholm, who strengthens the lineout and does not concede as many penalties as Elsom.

The Wallabies are due to name their team tomorrow.

- NZPA