Wallabies Make Key Forward Changes for Argentina Test, Suaalii on Bench

The Wallabies are set to face Argentina this weekend in Jujuy, with significant changes to their forward lineup as coach Les Kiss aims to deepen squad depth ahead of the World Cup next year. Notably, captain Harry Wilson has been rested entirely, while high-profile recruit Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii will start from the bench.

Allan Alaalatoa will take on the captaincy for the sixth time, stepping in for Wilson, who will be replaced at No 8 by Rob Valetini. This decision comes after the Wallabies’ impressive 56-17 victory over Japan two weeks ago, prompting a complete rotation of the forward pack.

Isaac Kailea is set to make his first Test appearance since 2024, adding to the reshaped pack that Kiss believes is worth exploring. “We’ve tried to find out how deep we can go in each position,” Kiss explained. “It may not seem like order from you what you’re seeing, but it’s making sense internally with the players in particular why we’re doing those things.”

In contrast to the forward changes, the backline remains stable. Ryan Lonergan will again partner Carter Gordon in the halves, while the back three of Max Jorgensen, Harry Potter, and Tom Wright will start together for the fourth consecutive match. The centre pairing of Hunter Paisami and Isaac Henry has also been retained, allowing Suaalii to provide impact off the bench.

“We feel that there’s an opportunity to just maintain some continuity in that midfield,” Kiss noted, highlighting the strategic decision to keep the backline consistent. Suaalii, who has recently recovered from a minor hamstring strain, is expected to cover the outside centre position during the match.

Tom Wright, a teammate of Suaalii, acknowledged the attention surrounding the rugby league import, stating, “He’s obviously one of the bigger names in all of world rugby, and he’s always going to be a talking point.” Wright praised Suaalii’s professionalism and work ethic, emphasising his positive impact on the team.

The Wallabies’ starting lineup for the match against Argentina is as follows:

• 15 Tom Wright
• 14 Max Jorgensen
• 13 Isaac Henry
• 12 Hunter Paisami
• 11 Harry Potter
• 10 Carter Gordon
• 9 Ryan Lonergan
• 8 Rob Valetini
• 7 Fraser McReight
• 6 Tom Hooper
• 5 Jeremy Williams
• 4 Josh Canham
• 3 Allan Alaalatoa (captain)
• 2 Brandon Paenga-Amosa
• 1 Isaac Kailea

With the match approaching, fans will be eager to see how the reshaped squad performs against a formidable Argentine side.

Source: This original report was produced by WTGO Newsroom using verified reporting from Guardian Rugby Union.