The 23-year-old has been named ahead of veteran halfback Will Genia after playing a part in the last three Tests from the bench.

Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie said it was a tough call to make but a reward for White's recent form in Super Rugby for the ACT Brumbies and in the Australian camp.

"Nic [White] has had a great season with the Brumbies and has brought his own brand of energy and hard work to the Wallaby group," McKenzie said.

"We've all been impressed by the contributions he has made to the team and in training and we now look forward to seeing him bring his skills to the fore of the pressure cooker on Saturday night."

McKenzie elaborated on the battle for the number nine jersey between White and Genia. 

"The fact that Will [Genia] has captained his country shows what high regard we hold him in and while he is naturally disappointed I also know how competitive he is and I've got no doubt he will train himself to a standstill to bounce back as a better player," he said.

"We've spoken about what areas we believe he can continue to improve and evolve his game and he was receptive to going back and addressing those things."

In the end, it wasn't an easy decision because he is undoubtedly a world class player.

"However, we also feel Nic has earned an opportunity to start and will add his own uniqueness and point of difference to how we want to play this game."

White will follow in the footsteps of another former Blacks junior and Wallabies halfback Luke Burgess.

This weekend he will team up with Genia's Queensland halves partner Quade Cooper.

Genia has been replaced as captain by Ben Mowen with first-choice skipper James Horwill still out injured.