Five Force playes named in Wallabies squad

Five Western Force players have been selected in the Wallabies 23-man squad for next month’s three-Test series against France.

Force captain Matt Hodgson and prop Pek Cowan get the chance to reignite their international careers after last being capped form Australia three years ago against South Africa in Sydney.

Hooker Nathan Charles, Winger Nick Cummins and No.8 Ben McCalman make up the Force contingent chosen by coach Ewen McKenzie.

Cowan tipped out 66-Test stalwart Benn Robinson and Melbourne Rebels prop Toby Smith.

Brumbies lock Sam Carter is the big bolter as one of five second-rowers selected in the squad.

Carter joins fellow uncapped locks Will Skelton and Luke Jones in the extended squad following the loss of Ireland-bound Kane Douglas and France-based Sitaleki Timani to overseas clubs.

Brumbies fullback Jesse Mogg has been overlooked despite starting the first two Tests of last year's Rugby Championship before being sidelined by a shoulder injury.

McKenzie has picked on form but also looked ahead to next year's World Cup by naming four uncapped forwards.

Eleven players from the NSW Waratahs and 10 from the Brumbies dominate the squad with Queensland’s representation dropping to a mere four following their terrible Super Rugby slump.

Even with playmaker Quade Cooper sidelined, Brumbies five-eighth Matt Toomua has been named as a centre in an indication he will play No.12 against France.

Wallabies squad

Backs: Israel Folau, Nick Cummins, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Pat McCabe, Rob Horne, Tevita Kuridrani, Christian Leali'ifano, Matt Toomua, Kurtley Beale, Bernard Foley, Will Genia, Nic White, Nick Phipps.

Forwards: Wycliff Palu, Ben McCalman, Scott Higginbotham, Michael Hooper, Matt Hodgson, Scott Fardy, James Horwill, Rob Simmons, Will Skelton, Luke Jones, Sam Carter, Ben Alexander, Sekope Kepu, James Slipper, Scott Sio, Pek Cowan, Stephen Moore, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Nathan Charles.