Fijian winger Marika Koroibete and flanker Rob Valetini will be in the starting lineup for the Wallabies as they face Argentina in Buenos Aires on Sunday morning. Their inclusion aims to strengthen the team, which is seeking to recover from consecutive losses to South Africa.
Also contributing to the team’s depth is Langi Gleeson, who will be available from the bench. Coach Joe Schmidt has appointed backrower Harry Wilson as captain, marking him as the 90th player to lead Australia, following the return of Taniela Tupou in the starting lineup.
Tupou, who missed the previous two Tests against South Africa, is joined by returning hooker Matt Faessler and Angus Bell. Nick Frost is back in action after recovering from a concussion and will team up with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second row.
In the backline, Hamish Stewart from the Western Force will make his debut as Wallaby number 986 after an extensive journey in Super Rugby with over 100 matches played for the Force and Queensland Reds. NSW Waratahs captain and scrumhalf Jake Gordon will also be back, forming a partnership with Noah Lolesio after his recovery.
The bench includes experienced players such as Allan Alaalatoa, Josh Nasser, and Isaac Kailea. Meanwhile, James Slipper will have to wait another week to equal George Gregan’s record of 139 caps for the Wallabies, with that milestone potentially occurring in the Bledisloe Cup series.
Jeremy Williams and Gleeson round out the forward options after overcoming injuries, while Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, and Max Jorgensen will continue to feature in the 23-man squad.
“The players have responded well to the travel and time difference since arriving in Buenos Aires, with today’s training being our most energetic,” Schmidt stated. “We expect the Argentinians to have strong home support, but we have also appreciated the encouragement from back in Australia, which we aim to honor.”
The match is scheduled to kick off at 10 am (Fiji Time).