Wallabies captain Harry Wilson will return from a knee injury in Saturday’s Rugby Championship clash against Argentina in Townsville, while flyhalf Tom Lynagh has also been recalled after recovering from concussion.
The return of No.8 Wilson, who missed Australia’s last-start 30-22 loss to the Springboks in Cape Town, means Rob Valetini will shift to flanker in a reshuffled pack, with Tom Hooper moving from the side of the scrum to lock to replace Will Skelton, who has returned to his French club La Rochelle.
In the backline, Lynagh will again wear the No.10 jersey after missing the Wallabies’ two-Test tour to South Africa after he suffered a head knock in Australia’s 22-12 win over the British and Irish Lions last month in Sydney.
Lynagh’s return results in veteran flyhalf James O’Connor dropping to the bench.
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Harry Wilson will return from injury against Argentina. Picture: Cameron Spencer/Getty ImagesSource: Getty Images
Elsewhere in the backs, Andrew Kellaway will replace injured fullback Tom Wright, who suffered a serious knee injury in the Wallabies’ loss in Cape Town.
“The players have reassembled after a few days break, following our two games in South Africa, and worked their way through a very warm week here in Townsville,” Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt said.
“Los Pumas are a combative and skilled side, and they will be confident after their recent performances.
“We know we’re going to need to be at our very best on Saturday afternoon.”
Wallabies team to play Argentina in Townsville on Saturday
1. Tom Robertson
2. Billy Pollard
3. Taniela Tupou
4. Nick Frost
5. Tom Hooper
6. Rob Valetini
7. Fraser McReight
8. Harry Wilson (captain)
9. Nic White
10. Tom Lynagh
11. Corey Toole
12. Len Ikitau
13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaaliil
14. Max Jorgensen
15. Andrew Kellaway
Bench:
16. Brandon Paenga-Amosa
17. Angus Bell
18. Zane Nonggorr
19. Jeremy Williams
20. Carlo Tizzano
21. Tate McDermott
22. James O’Connor
23. Filipo Daugunu