The Wallabies have made three changes to their starting XV for Saturday’s Rugby Championship showdown with South Africa in Cape Town.
Loose forward Rob Valetini returns at number eight after missing last weekend’s win at Ellis Park. He replaces skipper Harry Wilson, who is being managed after hobbling off during that match. In Wilson’s absence, flanker Fraser McReight will lead the side, becoming the 91st player to captain Australia.
Up front, Tom Robertson earns a recall at loosehead prop, stepping in for veteran James Slipper, who has returned home under HIA protocols. Robertson will anchor the front row alongside Billy Pollard and Taniela Tupou.
The third change comes on the wing, where Corey Toole will make his Wallabies debut. The Wagga Wagga product and former Olympian replaces Dylan Pietsch, sidelined with a fractured jaw sustained in Johannesburg.
The remainder of Joe Schmidt’s line-up remains intact. Nic White and James O’Connor continue their halves partnership, while Nick Frost and Will Skelton form the second-row pairing. Len Ikitau lines up at inside centre for his 45th Test, combining with Joseph Suaalii, who crossed for his first Test try last week. At the back, Tom Wright and Max Jorgensen join debutant Toole to complete the back three.
On the bench, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Angus Bell, and Zane Nonggorr cover the front row, with Jeremy Williams and Nick Champion de Crespigny offering additional forward firepower. The backline reinforcements are Tate McDermott, Tane Edmed, and Andrew Kellaway.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Schmidt said:
“The squad as a whole has recovered pretty well from what was a very draining and physical Test match on the highveld last week. We struggled to contain a powerhouse Springbok start and we know we have to improve leading into what’s likely to be a bruising encounter in Cape Town on Saturday night.”
The Wallabies will be aiming to build on their Ellis Park performance while bracing for another intense battle against the reigning world champions.
Wallabies: Tom Wright, Max Jorgensen, Joseph Suaalii, Len Ikitau, Corey Toole, James O’Connor, Nic White, Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight (capt), Tom Hooper, Will Skelton, Nick Frost, Taniela Tupou, Billy Pollard, Tom Robertson.
Reserves: Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Angus Bell, Zane Nonggorr, Jeremy Williams, Nick Champion de Crespigny, Tane Edmed, Tate McDermott, Andrew Kellaway
English