Fijian winger Marika Koroibete and flanker Rob Valetini are set to start for the Wallabies in their match against Argentina in Buenos Aires on Sunday morning. Their inclusion aims to strengthen the team as they seek to recover from two losses to South Africa. Another Fijian, Langi Gleeson, will be on the bench.
Coach Joe Schmidt has named Harry Wilson as the captain, marking him as the 90th player to lead Australia. Wilson’s leadership comes as Taniela Tupou returns to the starting lineup after missing the recent Tests against South Africa. He is joined by returning hooker Matt Faessler and Angus Bell.
Nick Frost is back in action following a concussion, where he will partner with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second row. In the backline, Hamish Stewart from the Western Force will make his debut as Wallaby number 986 at inside centre, following his extensive experience of over 100 Super Rugby games with the Force and Queensland Reds.
Additionally, NSW Waratahs captain and scrumhalf Jake Gordon returns to the lineup, teaming up with Noah Lolesio after recovering from an earlier injury. On the bench, Allan Alaalatoa adds 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, potentially set for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup series.
Jeremy Williams and Gleeson, both recovered from injuries, complete the forward cover. Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, and Max Jorgensen maintain their positions to finalize the 23-man roster.
“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 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 justify.”
The match is scheduled to kick off at 10 am (Fiji Time).