Wallabies five eighth Quade Cooper is looking forward to linking up with former Reds teammate Berrick Barnes, hoping he will relieve him of some tactical kicking duties.

After a standout performance in Australia's win over the US last week, Barnes is set to be named outside Cooper at No.12 today.

It is expected the pair will switch between the five eighth and inside centre positions against Russia.

Cooper will appreciate Barnes's composure under pressure and his ability with the boot and he is confident the inclusion of his former state teammate will help him rediscover the sparkling form that inspired the Reds to the 2011 Super Rugby title.

Australia plays Russia at 2.30pm this Saturday.

Meanwhile, Victor Vito has emerged as a possible test open-side as the All Blacks loose forward stocks call for contingency plans ahead of Sunday's test against Canada.

All Blacks assistant coach Steve Hansen has dismissed reports that captain Richie McCaw and No 8 Kieran Read are under injury clouds, but conceded Adam Thomson is in doubt for the final pool match.

It remains to be seen what side will be picked tomorrow morning, but with Read unlikely to be capable of playing 80 minutes and Thomson in doubt, Vito looks set for the All Blacks jumper yet again.

The All Blacks play Canada 2.30pm this Sunday.

Story by: Dhanjay Deo
Source: stuff.co.nz