Fijian winger Marika Koroibete and flanker Rob Valetini are set to start for the Wallabies in their match against Argentina in Buenos Aires on Sunday morning. Their inclusion aims to strengthen the team as they seek to recover from recent losses to South Africa.
Another Fijian, Langi Gleeson, will be on the bench. Coach Joe Schmidt has chosen Harry Wilson, the backrower, as captain. Wilson will become the 90th player to lead Australia, taking over the captaincy as Taniela Tupou returns to the starting lineup after missing the last two matches against South Africa.
Joining Tupou are returning hooker Matt Faessler and Angus Bell. Nick Frost also makes a comeback, having recovered from a concussion, and will partner Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second row. In the backline, Hamish Stewart from the Western Force will be making his debut as Wallaby number 986, marking a significant milestone after over 100 Super Rugby games with the Force and Queensland Reds.
NSW Waratahs captain and scrumhalf Jake Gordon is another notable change, partnering with Noah Lolesio following his recovery from injury. Adding experience to the bench are Allan Alaalatoa, Josh Nasser, and Isaac Kailea. James Slipper will have to wait another week to match George Gregan’s record of 139 caps for the Wallabies, which may occur during the Bledisloe Cup series.
Jeremy Williams and Gleeson are included in the forward cover as they have returned from injuries, while Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, and Max Jorgensen keep their places to complete the squad of 23.
“The players have bounced back from the travel and time difference since arriving in Buenos Aires, with today’s training being our most energetic,” Schmidt mentioned in a statement. “We know the Argentinians will enjoy vocal home support, but we have also received plenty of encouragement from back in Australia, which we appreciate and will strive to justify.”
The match is scheduled to kick off at 10am Fiji Time.