Squad Announcements and Player Returns
The Wallabies have announced a 34-man squad for the upcoming Flight Centre Series Tests against Los Pumas in Argentina. Among the notable inclusions are Len Ikitau and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, both returning to the squad. Ikitau, a recipient of the John Eales Medal, has recovered from an ankle injury that kept him out of previous matches against the Brave Blossoms.
Coach Les Kiss has largely maintained consistency in his selections for the two matches in South America. The squad features 19 forwards and 15 backs. Massimo De Lutiis, who recently made his debut and scored a try, has also been selected. The squad is set to gather in Sydney on Saturday before departing for Buenos Aires on Sunday.
Kiss commented on the selection, stating that the coaching staff aimed for consistency, building on the foundation established by the squad’s hard work and connection both on and off the field over recent weeks. He acknowledged that touring Argentina presents a significant challenge for the new group, requiring them to elevate their performance as they continue to develop their game.
Several players were not available for selection, including former NRL star Zac Lomax, La Rochelle lock Will Skelton, and Western Force scrum-half Henry Robertson, who has not yet debuted for the Wallabies. Lock Miles Amatosero was also not named due to suspension.
Recent Performances and Emerging Talent
The Wallabies recently delivered a strong performance against Japan in Townsville, securing a 56-17 victory. This match, which included a five-tries-to-none second half, highlighted several players. Isaac Henry, making his first start, impressed by helping to set up the first try.
Henry’s performance, alongside Hunter Paisami, came in the absence of the regular midfield pairing of Suaalii and Ikitau. Suaalii is considered a key recruit for the Wallabies, while Ikitau is noted as a consistent performer for the side.
Flanker Carlo Tizzano also made an impression against Japan with three takeaways. Coach Kiss brought on Fraser McReight, Australia’s regular No. 7, to play alongside Tizzano in the second half, forming a mobile pack. Rob Valetini, usually deployed at blindside flanker or No. 8, was rested. Captain Harry Wilson has become comfortable at No. 8.
Charlie Cale, a dynamic backrower, made his starting debut at blindside flanker and scored a late try. For the final 15 minutes of the match, Cale moved to No. 8, with Wilson shifting into lock. Coach Kiss noted that this was part of exploring player versatility, stating that he wants to build depth in what every player can do and play.
The debut of Massimo de Lutiis marked a significant moment, as he became the 1,000th player to appear for the Wallabies. He celebrated this milestone by scoring a try. De Lutiis expressed his excitement about becoming a Wallaby.
Squad Details for Argentina Tour
The Wallabies squad for the two Tests in Argentina includes the following players:
- Forwards (19): Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Charlie Cale, Josh Canham, Massimo de Lutiis, Tom Hooper, Isaac Kailea, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Billy Pollard, Aidan Ross, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Lachlan Shaw, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson (c)
- Backs (15): Filipo Daugunu, Ben Donaldson, Carter Gordon, Isaac Henry, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Ryan Lonergan, Tate McDermott, Declan Meredith, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Kalani Thomas, Tom Wright
The squad will assemble in Sydney on Saturday before travelling to Buenos Aires on Sunday.
Source: rugbypass.com
