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Published 14:42 21 Nov 2016 GMT
Updated 15:48 21 Nov 2016 GMT
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Paddy Jackson appears to be the man in possession. His immediate pros are good form with Ulster, his performances in South Africa over the summer and being that perceived safe pair of hands. The cons are that he did merely okay against the All Blacks, lacks a cutting, driving edge with ball in hand and his poor kick, on Saturday, which eventually led to Malakai Fekitoa's second try.
There has been a growing clamour for Joey Carbery after his excellent start to the season with Leinster and a daring style of play that has transferred handily enough to the international stage. He stood up well to the physicality of New Zealand and Canada too. His major issues are two-fold - kicking from hand [aimless punts up-field] and from the tee [his current record is 1/4].
Luke Marshall picked up an injury just before the autumn internationals and, when he was fully fit again, found Robbie Henshaw back at 12 and having a blinder. He is another man trusted by Schmidt to carry out the specific tasks he sets, and he would be very cosy in a 10-12-13 combination with Jackson and Jared Payne. He did not set the world alight against Canada and the mere suggestion he should play this weekend has upset our Facebook followers.
The people's champion is Garry Ringrose and few care that he has played only two 70-minute stints at inside centre [Leinster U20s in 2014 and against the All Blacks on Saturday]. Grew into Saturday's contest well and, along with Simon Zebo, seriously tested the Kiwi defence. Australia would test his mettle but many will feel he has done enough to merit his second Test start.
Whomever Schmidt selects in those key areas, they will have their work cut out for them against an Australian team looking to finish 2016 on the highest note possible.
And, with vital world rankings points up for grabs and World Cup seedings decided in Spring 2017, Schmidt knows how vital these selections could prove.
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