Wallabies search for new goal-kicker

Australian flyhalf Quade Cooper could assume the kicking duties in the Wallabies' Tri-Nations decider against New Zealand on Saturday, if James O'Connor is suspended for disciplinary lapses.

O'Connor failed to attend Australia's World Cup squad announcement last Thursday and missed the official team photograph.

He will face a code of conduct hearing and could be suspended for the match in Brisbane; Australia's last Test before the World Cup.

A number of media outlets reported Sunday that O'Connor had been seen at several bars on the night before the announcement.

The 21-year-old utility back has been Australia's main kicker, but coach Robbie Deans said Sunday that Cooper, Kurtley Beale and Berrick Barnes could perform those duties if O'Connor is suspended.

"Quade in the most recent outing was the back-up to James. He's been kicking very well," Deans said.

"We've still got Kurtley there as well and if Berrick was to come into the frame...he's been kicking well."

South Africa's 18-5 win over New Zealand in Port Elizabeth on Saturday means the Wallabies can win the Tri-Nations tournament by beating New Zealand in Brisbane.

New Zealand rested many of its stars, including captain and flank Richie McCaw and flyhalf Daniel Carter.

A number of Wallabies, including Barnes, Drew Mitchell, Ben McCalman and Rob Horne, played in the Sydney club competition at the weekend.

Deans said he was not aware of any injuries from those matches.

SAPA-AP