Fijian winger Marika Koroibete and flanker Rob Valetini will be part of the starting lineup for the Wallabies as they face Argentina in Buenos Aires on Sunday morning. Their inclusion aims to strengthen the team following two consecutive losses to South Africa.
Another Fijian player, Langi Gleeson, will be available on the bench. Coach Joe Schmidt has appointed backrower Harry Wilson as captain, he will be the 90th player to lead the Australian side. Wilson’s captaincy coincides with the return of Taniela Tupou, who is back in the starting lineup after missing the Tests against South Africa.
Joining Tupou are returning hooker Matt Faessler and Angus Bell. Nick Frost also makes a return to the squad after recovering from a concussion, partnering with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second row.
In the backs, Hamish Stewart of Western Force has been named at inside centre, making him Wallaby number 986. This marks a significant achievement for Stewart, who has played over 100 Super Rugby matches with the Force and Queensland Reds. NSW Waratahs captain and scrumhalf Jake Gordon will also rejoin the backline, partnering with Noah Lolesio following his recovery from injury.
The bench features experienced players like Allan Alaalatoa, alongside Josh Nasser and Isaac Kailea. James Slipper will have to wait another week to match George Gregan’s record of 139 Wallabies caps, with this milestone potentially on the horizon during the Bledisloe Cup series.
Jeremy Williams and Gleeson, who have both recovered from injuries, complete the forward cover. Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, and Max Jorgensen maintain their places in the matchday squad.
“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 understand that the Argentinians will have strong home support, but we have also received considerable encouragement from back in Australia, which we value and aim to honor.”
The match is set to kick off at 10am (Fiji Time).