BY CURTIS WOODWARD

Australia has named their team to play Scotland in the opening Four Nations match this weekend with five debutants in the squad.

Jake Friend has been selected on a five-man bench with winger Valentine Holmes to drop off.

It was being reported yesterday that Michael Morgan would start at five-eigth but coach Mal Meninga has opted for premiership-winning Cronulla star James Maloney instead.

Justin O’Neill has been given his debut Kangaroo jersey in the centres while Matt Moylan and Jake Trbojevic will also run out for the first time in an Australian jersey.

When questioned about the team, Meninga was adamant this side would get the job done.

“We can make a full-strength side with any of these group of players.” Meninga said.

“I always planned to ensure the entire 24-man squad has played across the Perth Test, and the Four Nations match against Scotland.

“That will set us up nicely for the rest of the tournament.”

The game kicks off at 6am on Saturday morning in New South Wales and Victoria. Check your local guide for other states.

Team: Matt Moylan, Josh Mansour, Justin O’Neill, Josh Dugan, Blake Ferguson, James Maloney, Cooper Cronk, Aaron Woods, Cameron Smith (capt), David Klemmer, Sam Thaiday, Tyson Frizell, Jake Trobojevic. Interchange: Jake Friend, Shannon Boyd, Trent Merrin, Michael Morgan, Valentine Holmes.

@woodward_curtis