Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt has made significant changes to the team, recalling veteran Fijian winger Marika Koroibete for the starting lineup to face the Springboks tonight at Optus Stadium in Perth. Koroibete, who plays in Japan, joins Andrew Kellaway and Tom Wright in the back three, marking his return since the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The experienced 59-Test player was part of the initial squad for the first two Tests of the Rugby Championship but missed the July series after returning from Japan.
Additionally, scrum-half Nic White of the Western Force is set to make his first start of the year, partnering with Noah Lolesio in the halves following his appearances off the bench against Wales and Georgia.
In the forwards, prop Angus Bell has been cleared to return from a toe injury, providing a significant boost to the team. He last played in April for the Waratahs after suffering a setback that affected his 2023 Super Rugby season. Hooker Josh Nasser will make his debut start alongside captain Allan Alaalatoa.
Angus Blyth rejoins the starting lineup following his absence during the Springboks’ defeat due to an infection, taking the place of Nick Frost, who is sidelined with a concussion.
The bench will feature two potential debutants, Serupepeli Uru, a former Fiji U20 captain, and Max Jorgensen. Uru will offer depth in the second and back row, while Jorgensen returns after being prevented from debuting as the youngest-ever Australian at last year’s Rugby World Cup due to injury.
Schmidt commented on the team’s blend of continuity and freshness, acknowledging the hard work put in by the players this week. He emphasized the need for greater combativeness and accuracy in their upcoming match.
The game is scheduled to commence at 7:45 PM.