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. Both players aim to bolster the team as they seek to recover from two recent losses against South Africa.
Another Fijian, Langi Gleeson, will be among the reserves. Head coach Joe Schmidt has appointed Harry Wilson as the captain for this match, making him the 90th player to lead Australia. Wilson’s leadership comes as Taniela Tupou returns to the starting lineup after missing the previous two Tests against South Africa, joining hooker Matt Faessler and Angus Bell.
Nick Frost also makes a comeback after recovering from a concussion, forming a second-row partnership with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto. In the backs, Hamish Stewart of Western Force will earn his first cap as Wallaby number 986, a recognition marking his over 100 Super Rugby games played for the Force and Queensland Reds.
NSW Waratahs captain and scrumhalf Jake Gordon joins the backline after recovering from an injury, pairing up with Noah Lolesio. On the bench, Allan Alaalatoa brings experience 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, with the possibility of achieving this milestone in the upcoming Bledisloe Cup series.
Jeremy Williams and Gleeson are back from injury, providing forward cover, while Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, and Max Jorgensen maintain their places in the squad, completing the 23-player roster.
Schmidt commented on the team’s recovery from travel fatigue, highlighting that today’s training was their most energetic yet. He acknowledged the strong support the team has received from fans back in Australia and expressed optimism about the match, aware of the vocal home support that Argentina will enjoy.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 10 AM Fiji Time.