Pete Samu debate ongoing as Michael Cheika names five uncapped players

ACT Brumbies back row Pete Samu is the standout absentee from Michael Cheika’s Wallabies squad — which features five uncapped players — to face Ireland in the forthcoming June Test series

New Zealand Rugby has not released Samu for selection given he also qualifies for New Zealand via residency, leaving Cheika to explain that he can’t yet pick a player he was keen to involve as soon as possible.

“I’ve been told at this point I can’t select him,” Cheika said. “There is a spot for him there. It’s in other’s hands. I’m not really involved in that part of it. I’m hoping there will be some more clarity about that tomorrow [Thursday].”