Jones rings changes

Australia coach Eddie Jones has made three changes up front for Saturday’s autumn international against Scotland at Murrayfield.

Hooker Jeremy Paul, second row Daniel Vickerman and number eight John Roe have all been drafted into the starting line-up as the Wallabies look to start their four-match tour on a winning note.

The back line remains unchanged since the defeat by South Africa in the Tri-Nations decider in August but Matt Rogers and Elton Flatley have been named on the bench after recovering from injury.

Veteran scrum-half George Gregan has been named skipper – Saturday’s clash will be his 23 Test in charge – with fly-half Stephen Larkham and openside Phil Waugh named vice-captains.

Jones said: “There were a number of positions that were closely contested. Of the squad of 28 we only had two guys unavailable for selection in Nic Henderson and Mark Gerrard.

“We really did have 26 guys competing for 22 spots and we’ve made some changes since the Tri-Nations. Dan Vickerman is in the second row and deserves his opportunity.

“Jeremy Paul and John Roe played off the bench for most of the Tri-Nations but have shown they’re worthy of a starting spot during training since. Jeremy had been behind Brendan Cannon for a fair while now but has addressed a number of issues he had in his game.

“He’s the sort of hooker that suits our style of play. He’s a good ball runner and a strong defender.”