The play is usually caused by the intermediate shaft on the AUs.
Connects to steering rack.
Try this.
With vehicle stationary and not running grab the steering shaft in the engine bay and turn with your hands (just above the universal joint).Make sure the ignition lock is not on.
You may feel the "play" in the intermediate shaft.
They wear in the shaft pin.
Picture is from my worn out V8 intermediate shaft.I6 same but with smaller colller.
Rgds
Dazza