Fijian winger Marika Koroibete and flanker Rob Valetini are set to start for the Wallabies in their upcoming match against Argentina in Buenos Aires on Sunday morning. Their inclusion aims to strengthen the team as they seek to recover from previous losses to South Africa in two recent matches.
Langi Gleeson, another Fijian player, will be among the reserves. Coach Joe Schmidt has appointed Harry Wilson as the captain, making him the 90th player to lead the Australian team. Wilson’s captaincy comes with the return of Taniela Tupou to the starting lineup after missing the two Tests against South Africa. He will be joined by returning hooker Matt Faessler and Angus Bell.
Nick Frost also makes a comeback after recovering from a concussion and will link up with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second row. In the backs, Western Force’s Hamish Stewart will earn his first Test cap as Wallaby number 986, capping off an extensive journey with over 100 Super Rugby appearances for the Force and Queensland Reds.
NSW Waratahs captain and scrumhalf Jake Gordon is the other addition to the backline, partnering with Noah Lolesio following his recovery from injury. On the bench, experienced players Allan Alaalatoa, Josh Nasser, and Isaac Kailea will provide added depth. James Slipper will have to wait another week to match George Gregan’s record of 139 Test caps, which he may reach during the Bledisloe Cup series.
Jeremy Williams and Gleeson have both returned from injury to bolster the forward options, while Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, and Max Jorgensen maintain their positions 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 stated. “We are aware that the Argentinians will enjoy vocal home support, but we’ve felt a lot of encouragement from back in Australia, which we appreciate and aim to justify.”
The match is scheduled to kick off at 10 AM Fiji Time.