Australia head coach Les Kiss is accelerating his generational rebuild, handing uncapped 22-year-old Harry McLaughlin-Phillips a shock call-up for the daunting 27 September clash against the Springboks in Perth.
Carter Gordon sustained a leg fracture during the 28-28 draw with Argentina in Mendoza, forcing an immediate change at flyhalf. Rather than reverting to established veterans like James O’Connor, Bernard Foley or Noah Lolesio, the coaching setup is backing young talent against the reigning Rugby World Cup champion, South Africa.
The Springboks will have a week’s break following the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour where they defeated the All Blacks 3-1, having lost the first test at Ellis Park.
Trusting youth for Wallabies showdown
This deliberate strategy to fast-track developing playmakers signals a bold new direction for the unbeaten national side. Navigating positional changes in the backline remains a key focus for the coaching staff ahead of the Optus Stadium test.
“We did our due diligence, that’s for sure, and it landed that Harry had earned this right, and he’s waiting on our doorstep,” Kiss told SA Rugby magazine.
We saw the Wallabies try a similar tactic against the Lions last summer when they threw Tom Lynagh into the deep end with the starting number 10 job.
Australia remain undefeated across five Tests under Joe Schmidt and Kiss, but facing the Springboks presents a severe escalation in physicality. Acknowledging the immense challenge ahead, Kiss noted the step up in intensity required.
“We know that we’re playing the number one nation in the world… we’re going to have to make sure we get some things better to be able to front up against the Springboks. It will be tough, but I’m pretty sure the boys will be up for the fight,” he told RugbyPass.
Adding experience to the squad
To balance the youthful injection, utility back Jordan Petaia has been recalled. The 26-year-old returns to the international fold following an NFL trial and stints in France and Japan. Shaking up the matchday squad is becoming a hallmark of Kiss’s tenure as he blends raw potential with seasoned campaigners.
The Wallabies will need to find a balance as they build towards a home World Cup next year, which will also see them take on the All Blacks in the group stage.
