The Wallabies’ preparations for their upcoming match against the British and Irish Lions have suffered a significant setback, as three standout players have been ruled out of the squad for Sunday’s fixture against Fiji in Newcastle.
It has been reported that lock Will Skelton, flanker Rob Valetini (both with calf injuries), and halfback Jake Gordon (hamstring injury) will not be available for selection.
Head coach Joe Schmidt is set to provide further details on their conditions during a press conference on Friday afternoon.
Will Skelton of Australia at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. Getty
Skelton, who captained Australia during the 2023 Rugby World Cup, has expressed his disappointment after his calf injury has now ruled him out of the match.
Meanwhile, Valetini has earned the prestigious John Eales Medal for the past two years due to his outstanding performances, and Gordon serves as the team’s starting number nine and is part of the leadership group.
With these three key players sidelined, new opportunities arise for Jeremy Williams, Langi Gleeson, and Tate McDermott to make their mark in what is Australia’s only Test before facing the formidable Lions in Brisbane on July 19.
Australia’s Harry Wilson lifts the Ella-Mobbs Trophy following a late victory. Getty
Harry Wilson will continue as captain in the number eight position.
Schmidt commented, “The entire squad has worked diligently both on and off the field, reconnecting effectively as we prepare for the Test against Fiji this Sunday. The players and wider management are eager to take the field, particularly in front of a large crowd in Newcastle, as we embark on what promises to be an exciting yet demanding schedule of Test matches for 2025.”
NEW PODCAST! Star flanker Fraser McReight joins the crew live from the Wallabies camp as they gear up for their clash with Fiji on Sunday.
Hooker David Porecki will make his return to the Test arena after a hiatus of 643 days since his last appearance in a Wallabies jersey.
Porecki’s last match was as captain during the challenging 2023 World Cup.
As anticipated, dynamic Waratahs backs Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (who suffered a broken jaw) and Max Jorgensen (ankle injury) have recovered and will take their places at outside centre and left wing, respectively.
Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii of the Waratahs receives treatment for an injury before being stretchered off. Getty
WALLABIES (15-1): Tom Wright, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Noah Lolesio, Tate McDermott, Harry Wilson (c), Fraser McReight, Langi Gleeson, Jeremy Williams, Nick Frost, Allan Alaalatoa, David Porecki, James Slipper
Reserves: Billy Pollard, Angus Bell, Zane Nonggorr, Tom Hooper, Carlo Tizzano, Nic White, Ben Donaldson, Filipo Daugunu
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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