Melbourne - Australia coach Dave Rennie has made six changes to his starting 15 for the Rugby Championship test against South Africa in Adelaide on Saturday as he welcomes back a slew of fit-again players.
Folau Fainga'a, a late withdrawal ahead of the 48-17 defeat to Argentina in San Juan, is back at starting hooker after recovering from a head knock, alongside recalled prop Allan Alaalatoa.
Hunter Paisami will start at inside centre with midfield partner Len Ikitau, while Andrew Kellaway will ease back into action from the bench after recovering from a hamstring injury.
Matt Philip has been recalled in the second row in place of the demoted Darcy Swain, while Dave Porecki is back to provide hooker cover on the bench.
With James O'Connor dropped from the squad, Noah Lolesio will start at flyhalf, while Reece Hodge has been promoted to starting fullback, shifting Tom Wright back onto the wing.
Loosehead prop James Slipper will lead the side again while regular captain Michael Hooper remains unavailable for wellbeing reasons.
After winning their Rugby Championship opener against Argentina in Mendoza, an injury-hit Australia were thrashed 48-17 by the Pumas in San Juan, prompting Rennie to demand a response against the world champion Springboks.
"It's great to have a number of experienced players back in the mix this weekend," Rennie said in a statement.
"We understand that respect is earned daily and we get an opportunity to earn it against the current world champions on Saturday afternoon."
Australia team: 15-Reece Hodge, 14-Tom Wright, 13-Len Ikitau, 12-Hunter Paisami, 11-Marika Koroibete, 10-Noah Lolesio, 9-Nic White, 8-Rob Valetini, 7-Fraser McReight, 6-Jed Holloway, 5-Matt Philip, 4-Rory Arnold, 3-Allan Alaalatoa, 2-Folau Fainga'a, 1-James Slipper (captain)
Replacements: 16-Dave Porecki, 17-Scott Sio, 18-Taniela Tupou, 19-Darcy Swain, 20-Rob Leota, 21-Pete Samu, 22-Tate McDermott, 23-Andrew McKellaway.
Reuters