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 is expected to strengthen the squad following consecutive losses to South Africa.
Fellow Fijian Langi Gleeson will be available from the bench. Coach Joe Schmidt has designated backrower Harry Wilson as the team’s captain, marking him as the 90th player to lead Australia. His captaincy coincides with Taniela Tupou’s return to the starting lineup after missing the previous two matches against South Africa.
Tupou will be joined by hooker Matt Faessler and Angus Bell, while Nick Frost makes his return from a concussion to partner Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second row. In the backs, Hamish Stewart from Western Force will earn his first Test cap, becoming Wallaby number 986 after an extensive Super Rugby career.
NSW Waratahs captain and scrumhalf Jake Gordon is another new addition to the backline, set to partner with Noah Lolesio following his recovery from injury. The bench will feature Allan Alaalatoa providing veteran presence alongside 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 could occur during the Bledisloe Cup series. Jeremy Williams and Gleeson are included in the forward reserves after recovering from injuries, while Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, and Max Jorgensen maintain their places to complete the matchday squad.
Schmidt expressed confidence in the team’s preparation, stating, “The players have bounced back from the travel and time difference since arriving in Buenos Aires, with today’s training being our most energetic. We know the Argentinians will enjoy vocal home support, but we’ve also had plenty of encouragement from back in Australia, which we appreciate and will strive to honor.”
The match is scheduled to kick off at 10am (Fiji Time).