Joe Schmidt Makes Strategic Changes for the Wallabies’ Clash Against Japan
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has decided to rest stars Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and Max Jorgensen for the next match against England, excluding them from the 23-player squad that will face Japan this Saturday. This decision is offset by the return of the talented Andrew Kellaway and Dylan Pietsch, who have been included in the starting XV after recovering from hamstring and jaw injuries, respectively. Schmidt confirmed his team for the match on Thursday afternoon, revealing significant changes for the clash against Eddie Jones’ Brave Blossoms. The Wallabies will maintain some stability with the halfback pairing of Jake Gordon and Tane Edmed, who have been retained since the Bledisloe Cup defeat in Perth. However, the team will present new combinations in the backs, center, back row, second row, and front row compared to the team that lost against the All Blacks. Kellaway and Pietsch will join Corey Toole in the backs, while Hunter Paisami and Josh Flook will form the midfield, representing the Queensland Reds. In addition, Schmidt has named Nick Champion de Crespigny as captain in his third international match. Champion de Crespigny replaces regular captain Harry Wilson at number 6, while his Western Force teammate Carlo Tizzano will get his chance at number 7, with Fraser McReight receiving rest. Rob Valetini completes the third Australian line at number 8.The coach defended his decision not to use more experienced players like Gordon or Williams, who have been captains of their Super Rugby teams. The latest changes in the forward pack include Jeremy Williams and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto forming a new second-row pairing, while Queensland’s Zane Nonggorr will make his first start in the front row, alongside Josh Nasser and Angus Bell. “It was great to get the group together late last week in Sydney and welcome some new faces,” Schmidt said. Schmidt will look to the bench again for strength with Billy Pollard and Tom Robertson named, while Aidan Ross has the potential to become the fifth man to represent both Australia and New Zealand in Test rugby, after being included among the replacements.“Nick has captained the University of Sydney in the past, was vice-captain of Western Force when they played against the British & Irish Lions, so he has recent leadership experience,” Schmidt said of his decision to name de Crespigny as captain. “He is part of our leadership team and will be very well supported by Jeremy Williams and Lukan Salakai-Lotto, who will take care of the line-out”.
Joe Schmidt
Meanwhile, Josh Canham and Hamish Stewart have been called up by the Wallabies after impressing for Australia A in their 70-7 victory over Japan XV last weekend, while Ryan Lonergan will have another opportunity to develop his international experience as a substitute scrum-half, with Filipo Daugunu completing the 23.
Australia’s Team to Face Japan
- Andrew Kellaway
- Corey Toole
- Josh Flook
- Hunter Paisami
- Dylan Pietsch
- Tane Edmed
- Jake Gordon
- Rob Valetini
- Carlo Tizzano
- Nick Champion de Crespigny
- Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
- Jeremy Williams
- Zane Nonggorr
- Josh Nasser
- Angus Bell