The Wallabies have named their fourth different flyhalf this year with Tane Edmed named at No.10 to replace the injured Tom Lynagh.
Head coach Joe Schdmit has resisted moving James O’Connor back into the starting side in Lynagh’s place, instead handing Edmed his first Test start for the Wallabies. O’Connor will deputise from the bench.
Edmed’s first Test ended early in Dublin last year after coming in off the bench, and while he missed the British & Irish Lions series for the Wallabies, he made an appearance for the AUNZ side.
Vermeulen explains Etzebeth’s absence from team
Vermeulen explains Etzebeth’s absence from team
Partnering Edmed in the halves is Nic White, last week’s starting halfback, while Tate McDermott is in the reserves.
The Wallabies will be without Len Ikitau in the midfield with Hunter Paisami getting his first start of the year alongside Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii ahead of their return to Sydney. The back three of Corey Toole, Max Jorgensen and Andrew Kellaway is unchanged.
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt said: “While managing injuries is always a challenge, we’re excited to have some fresh bodies who have been training hard with the group for a number of weeks and are keen to contribute.
“Argentina led for the whole game in Townsville until the very end and we’re very aware of the threat they’ll pose on Saturday afternoon. We’ll need to be better than we were last week.”
Head-to-Head
Last 5 Meetings
Average Points scored
Wallabies team to play Argentina, Allianz Stadium, Sydney:
1. James Slipper
2. Billy Pollard
3. Taniela Tupou
4. Jeremy Williams
5. Tom Hooper
6. Rob Valetini
7. Fraser McReight
8. Harry Wilson (c)
9. Nic White
10. Tane Edmed
11. Corey Toole
12. Hunter Paisami
13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
14. Max Jorgensen
15. Andrew Kellaway
Reserves
16. Josh Nasser
17. Angus Bell
18. Zane Nonggorr
19. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
20. Carlo Tizzano
21. Tate McDermott
22. James O’Connor
23. Filipo Daugunu