Veteran Wallabies playmaker Quade Cooper has been cut from the squad to face Wales in Michael Cheika's first Test match as head coach.

Cooper's wait for a first Test appearance this year goes on with the Queensland Reds star dropping off an extended nine-man bench for Saturday's (Sunday morning AEDT) match at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium.

Cheika has opted for a 6-2 split of forwards to backs on his bench, with Rob Horne and Will Genia preferred to Cooper as utility options.

Skipper Michael Hooper said the forward-heavy bench, which includes uncapped prop Tetera Faulkner, reflected Australia's intent to overpower a tough Wales pack.