I guess most of Beale's appearances at fullback came back when we wern't awful.
I think this is relevant. Two of the last three years have been diabolical and Folau has played fullback almost exclusively during that time. I don't think that is down to Folau playing fullback. He's clearly been one of our best players and has won the John Eales Medal multiple times.
The thing we are going to miss most from Folau is his try scoring ability. His record there is phenomenal and replacing that could be very difficult. It's all very well talking about other fullbacks having a more classic skillset but quantifying how much advantage that gives you is difficult.
DHP has scored 7 tries in 31 tests. All but one of those starting and mostly on the wing. You also can't argue that it's hard to score tries out on the wing.
Personally I think Beale will get the first shot in the 15 jersey.
I think DHP will be preferred on the wing ahead of Banks and Banks will be battling with Maddocks for a squad spot. Potentially neither will go to South Africa.
31 player squad for South African tour:
Props: Sio, Slipper, Ala'alatoa, Tupou, Robertson (I'm predicting Kepu will get left at home for this one to rest. He's played too many minutes this season).
Hooker: Fainga'a, Uelese, TPN
Lock: Rodda, Arnold, Simmons, Philip
Backrow: Hooper, Jones, Naisarani, LSL (Lukhan Salakaia-Loto), Dempsey, Valetini (Samu misses through injury)
Scrum Half: Genia, Phipps, White
Fly half: Foley, Leali'ifano
Centres: Kerevi, Kuridrani, Hodge, To'omua
Back three: Beale, Koroibete, DHP, Banks
Powell is the most controversial omission but I think Genia and Phipps will still be the preferred combination and Cheika will be keen to get a better look at White.