Rugby: Giffin preferred to Harrison

Wallaby Lock Justin Harrison has been omitted from the Australian squad travelling to South Africa for Saturday’s Tri-Nations clash in Pretoria.

The squad was reduced to 26 players, with Harrison and the injured James Holbeck (right hamstring) the ones to miss out.

World Cup winning lock David Giffin returns from injury to oust Harrison.

Wallabies coach Eddie Jones said: ‘‘It is a very tough decision with Justin.

‘‘In the end it’s not really a decision on whether he’s the best lock, it’s a decision on who gives us the most flexibility and versatility in the squad given that we are going to South Africa.’’

Harrison was disappointed but understanding of the decision.

‘‘The way the modern game is going now you need someone on the bench that can cover both back-row and second-row and I don’t kid myself, I’m not a back-rower,’’ he said.

‘‘It’s always disappointing when you work hard to achieve something, then you don’t in an instant, but it’s all about making the most of your opportunities and hopefully I’ll get another one soon.’’