Rugby: Pocock returns for Wallabies tour

David Pocock. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Wallabies flanker David Pocock will make his return from a knee injury next month after being named in Australia's 30-man European tour squad today.

The Wallabies play France, England, Italy and Wales on the four-week tour with the first Test at Stade de France in Paris on November 10.

In a further boost for the Wallabies, coach Robbie Deans also welcomes back stalwarts Stephen Moore and Berrick Barnes from injury while winger Digby Ioane has overcome a knee problem to take his place in the squad.

Scott Higginbotham was left out after the fiery flanker was suspended for two matches following his scuffle with All Blacks captain Richie McCaw in last Saturday's 18-18 Bledisloe Cup draw in Brisbane.

Wallabies squad:

Forwards - Benn Robinson, James Slipper, Sekope Kepu, Ben Alexander, Paddy Ryan, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Stephen Moore, James Hanson, Nathan Sharpe (capt), Sitaleki Timani, Kane Douglas, Rob Simmons, Dave Dennis, David Pocock, Michael Hooper, Liam Gill, Wycliff Palu, Radike Samo.

Backs - Nick Phipps, Brett Sheehan, Kurtley Beale, Berrick Barnes, Pat McCabe, Anthony Faingaa, Ben Tapuai, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Digby Ioane, Nick Cummins, Drew Mitchell, Mike Harris.

- AAP