Deans will not call on Cooper

Australia coach Robbie Deans insists he will not be sending for fly-half Quade Cooper for the series opener against Wales on Saturday.

The mercurial stand-off did not feature for the Wallabies in their 9-6 defeat to Scotland at the weekend as it was deemed too soon after his return from long-term injury. But, following the shock defeat to Andy Robinson's men, there were reports that the tactician might press the panic button and send for the controversial fly-half. But Deans has made it clear that he will not be in contact with the Queensland Reds star and feels that it will be far more beneficial for both player and country if he remains with his state side. "There is no chance of bringing Quade Cooper back into the squad," he said. "It's not worth the risk and it would be negligent, it could compromise him and possibly the team." Berrick Barnes made his first start at number 10 against the men from north of the border but was unable to break down the Scots' stubborn resistance. It is open to debate whether he will continue in the role but Deans was quick to point out that planning has already begun for the first Test against Wales and is targeting a massive improvement against the RBS 6 Nations champions. "Our plans for the weekend started the moment the final whistle blew on Tuesday night and we know there are significant areas of our game that will have to improve," he added. "If any of the Australian players had forgotten what Test rugby is like it is looming large in their minds now. The players are back in the groove of Test rugby and face a massive game on Saturday."