Les Kiss has overhauled the forward pack for the Wallabies’ clash against Argentina in Jujuy, resting regular captain Harry Wilson and naming Allan Alaalatoa to lead the side. Rob Valetini steps in at No 8, while prop Isaac Kailea earns his first Test appearance since 2024.
Pack Shake-Up: Alaalatoa Steps Up as Captain
Kiss explained that the staff “tried to find out how deep we can go in each position” across the front row, calling the “reshaped” pack “worthwhile exploring” ahead of next year’s World Cup. While international rugby focuses on rivalries like the Springboks vs All Blacks clash, Australia Rugby is testing squad depth. Kiss said: “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.”
Fraser McReight returns to the flank, having been rested in the previous test against Japan, where Carlo Tizzano had taken up the number seven jersey.
As he has on several occasions, loosehead prop, Angus Bell, will come from the bench to offer some ball carrying impact.
Backline Continuity and Suaalii’s Versatility
While the forwards rotate entirely, Kiss has kept complete continuity in the backline. Ryan Lonergan partners Carter Gordon in the halves, while Hunter Paisami and Isaac Henry anchor the midfield. Joseph Suaalii returns to the matchday squad on the bench following a hamstring strain.
Kiss noted: “We feel that there’s an opportunity to just maintain some continuity in that midfield that we did [have] with Carter [Gordon] and Lonners [Lonergan] there, and the back three, just to keep that in its right place and then utilise Joseph in any way that we wish from that position in terms of the positions he can cover.”
Fullback Tom Wright endorsed the versatile back’s impact, stating: “From my perspective, as one of his teammates in all five, six of the Tests that we’ve had this year, I think he’s been awesome for us. He works extremely hard during the week, and he’s one of the most professional guys I’ve trained and played with.”
Suaalii made his transition to rugby union to play for the Wallabies ahead of the 2025 Lions series. Having just turned 23, the former NRL star, still has a lot to learn and build on his 22 caps for the Wallabies.
