Mortlock stands behind Tahu

Timana Tahu: Needs a little time

Timana Tahu bore the brunt of blame for Australia's collapse in Johannesburg a week ago - even he himself admitted he was 'looking for a rope to hang myself with' after being hauled off early in the second half.

Tahu is on a steeper learning curve than most, needing both to learn his new centre position and to shake off the 'bad' habits inherent in his game as a result of his distinguished seven-year rugby league career.

Much punditry in Australia has centred around the likelihood of Tahu's jettisoning from the team for the Tri-Nations decider against the All Blacks in Brisbane next week, but captain and centre partner Stirling Mortlock has sprung to Tahu's defence.

"I thought Timana went exceptionally considering it was his first start in twelve at this level," Mortlock said to Fox Sports.

"From my perspective all the negative press that's been out there has not just been of him but of the team.

"You take that on the chin but in particularly for him in his first start.

"He's a great player and he's going to be a great for us and him along with everyone in the team that experienced that loss will be better for it."

Tahu may yet crack the nod for the match, with Berrick Barnes - generally accepted to be the best number twelve Australia has - still struggling with a shoulder injury. Barnes himself believes he is only a 50-50 call for the match, and Deans is even less optimistic.

But there is also the temptation to move Mortlock himself inside, and plonk Ryan Cross - another code-crosser - back in at thirteen.

Otherwise, Australia's only injury concern is hooker Adam Freier, with a hamstring strain.

The Wallabies have been in camp since a day off after returning from South Africa, and a team featuring some six changes, including the returns of George Smith and Nathan Sharpe, is likely.