Gregan will match Carling's record

MONTPELLIER, France -- George Gregan will equal Will Carling's international test captaincy record when he leads out Australia for the 59th time, against Fiji at the Stade de la Mosson on Sunday.

Gregan, a veteran of 136 tests, captains the team because Stirling Mortlock injured a shoulder during the defeat of Wales in Cardiff.

The Wallabies coach, John Connolly, said: "George has a wonderful record in the game and this is another outstanding achievement."

Australia make three changes for the match. Adam Ashley-Cooper, fit after a toe problem, fills Mortlock's position at outside-center and Phil Waugh makes his tournament debut at openside flanker in place of George Smith.

Mark Chisholm will take over from lock Nathan Sharpe.

Victory will send Australia into the quarterfinals but Conelly warned: "Fiji have been playing good rugby at this World Cup and have proven that if you allow them into the game by making mistakes they will make you pay.

Australia: Chris Latham; Drew Mitchell, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Matt Giteau, Lote Tuqiri; Berrick Barnes, George Gregan (capt); Wycliff Palu, Phil Waugh, Rocky Elsom; Dan Vickerman, Mark Chisholm; Guy Shepherdson, Stephen Moore, Matt Dunning.

Replacements: Adam Freier, Greg Holmes, Hugh McMeniman, Stephen Hoiles, Sam Cordingley, Scott Staniforth, Julian Huxley.

New Zealand show 12 changes for Sunday's game against Scotland at Murrayfield.

Center Conrad Smith, flanker Chris Masoe and lock Ali Williams are the only players to reappear after the 108-13 humiliation of Portugal.

New Zealand: Leon MacDonald; Doug Howlett, Conrad Smith, Luke McAlister, Sitiveni Sivivatu; Dan Carter, Byron Kelleher; Rodney So'oialo, Richie McCaw (capt), Chris Masoe; Ali Williams, Reuben Thorne; Carl Hayman, Anton Oliver, Tony Woodcock

Replacements: Andrew Hore, Neemia Tialata, Chris Jack, Sione Lauaki, Brendon Leonard, Nick Evans, Isaia Toeava E-mail to a friend