New Faces in the Wallabies Squad
In a surprise move, Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has named Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in his 34-man spring tour squad. The former Sydney Roosters star only recently finished his NRL stint and is now in line to make his Test debut as early as next month.
Recalls for Skelton and Kerevi
Schmidt has also handed recalls to overseas-based Will Skelton and Samu Kerevi. Skelton did not make himself available for the Rugby Championship due to the looming Top 14 season, while Kerevi played only League 2 rugby in Japan earlier this year. Their selection suggests that Schmidt is not yet content with his options in the second row or inside centre for next year’s British & Irish Lions Series.
New Additions to the Squad
The squad also includes uncapped Tane Edmed, who impressed with North Harbour in New Zealand’s NPC season. Tom Hooper and Josh Canham join Edmed on the Australia A tour as a result of Skelton’s selection. Other new additions to the squad include winger Harry Potter, hooker Billy Pollard, and versatile Seru Uru.
Changes to the Squad
Hamish Stewart, who featured in the two Tests against Argentina, drops out of the Wallabies squad. Tom Lynagh, who was plagued by injury during the Rugby Championship, will look to reignite his season with Australia A. Corey Toole also drops down to the Australia A tour, making way for Potter’s inclusion.
Coach’s Comments
“The squad has had a chance to regenerate over the last few weeks,” Schmidt said. “At the same time, it was good to catch up with a wider group of players in the two-day training hubs we had in Canberra and Brisbane last week.” Schmidt emphasized the need to balance opportunities for players and provide game time for those who need it.
Wallabies Spring Tour Squad
Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Matt Faessler, Nick Frost, Langi Gleeson, Isaac Kailea, Fraser McReight, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Billy Pollard, Tom Robertson, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Will Skelton, James Slipper, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Seru Uru, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson
Backs: Ben Donaldson, Tane Edmed, Jake Gordon, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Samu Kerevi, Noah Lolesio, Tate McDermott, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Nic White, Tom Wright
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