RUGBY UNION
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He was one of Australia's best in the comprehensive World Cup win over Uruguay but Warren junior Ben McCalman may find himself back on the sideline this weekend.
McCalman scored a double in the 52-point win on Saturday night (AEST), but the Wallabies’ enviable back-row depth means he and fellow standout Sean McMahon look set to be back on the bench for the crunch game against England.
David Pocock and Michael Hooper were likely to be recalled for the bumper Pool A clash at Twickenham but coach Michael Cheika admitted a double Mac attack was “rattling their cage”.
Such is the Wallabies’ strength at openside breakaway that Cheika has been forced to pick two specialist No. 7s in his starting forward pack with McMahon waiting in the wings and McCalman ready for his chance.
McCalman and McMahon showed they were ready for their opportunity, both scoring twice in a 65-3 smashing of Uruguay at Villa Park.
Melbourne Rebels bulldog Sean McMahon was outstanding from his first touch of the game, busting through defenders and continued his work throughout in a man of the match effort.
He must have just pipped McCalman for the best on ground award, who was his usual dogged self around the breakdown and popping up anywhere the Wallabies needed him.
“There's a few players that definitely put their hands up for selection,” Cheika said.
“It’s getting a bit ridiculous. Every man of the match we’re having is seven or eight.
“We’ve got some pretty influential players in those positions, but as long as he (McMahon) is there rattling their cage, that’ll keep them honest.”
A bench spot could open up for either McCalman or McMahon as the Wallabies wait for scan results on No. 8 Wycliff Palu (hamstring) and lock Will Skelton (shoulder).
McMahon and McCalman are screaming out for more action, but Pocock and Hooper are world class in their positions and will most likely form a back-row combination against England.
Three-time World Cup veteran Drew Mitchell is also pushing for one of the Wallabies’ wing spots.
“I think it’s nice that our No. 7s and No. 8s keep getting man of the matches,” said stand-in Wallabies captain Dean Mumm.
"But you don't get a result like that unless it's more of a collective front and I was impressed as a captain with the intent and the way we went about things.
"I think selections are always hard in a competitive squad. Anyone could stick their hand up now.
"[McMahon and McCalman] scored four tries between them so that's a reasonable effort. From time to time you're lucky with depth in positons ? that's a nice place to be."
The Wallabies will wait until Thursday before naming their team for the clash against England.