Wallabies Squad Confirmed
Wallabies Recall Len Ikitau to Squad for Two Argentina Tests; De Lutiis Debuts
Key Points
Massimo De Lutiis scored on his Wallabies debut and is noted as one of five front-rowers to score in the Queensland victory, with Zane Nonggorr ruled out due to injury.
The squad features overseas-based players Tom Hooper and Taniela Tupou (Racing 92) among the selections.
Tom Wright could reach 50 Test caps if he features in both Tests against Argentina, having 48 caps at the moment.
Wings Max Jorgensen and Harry Potter have been named among the 34-man Wallabies squad for the Argentina tests.
Len Ikitau has been recalled to Australia's 34-man Wallabies squad for the two-Test tour of Argentina, returning from minor ankle surgery. Perth Now reports he is the only addition to the squad that beat Argentina in recent home Tests, with matches set for San Salvador and Mendoza.
The squad also keeps Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii despite a minor hamstring issue, while Miles Amatosero misses the trip due to suspension. Massimo De Lutiis is set to become Wallaby number 1,000, a milestone for Australian rugby.
Ikitau's Return Opens Up Midfield Options for Kiss
Ikitau missed Australia's recent wins over Japan after needing minor ankle surgery. His recall gives coach Les Kiss a key decision to make in the midfield. If Hunter Paisami continues to shine at inside centre, Ikitau could shift to outside centre rather than reclaim his usual No. 12 jersey, according to Flash Score.
Suaalii also remains in the mix for a midfield spot despite his hamstring concern. Kiss has a wealth of strike centre options for the two-Test series, giving Australia real depth in the backline heading into South America.
Tom Wright Close to 50-Cap Milestone in Argentina
Winger Tom Wright sits on 48 Test caps. If he plays in both matches against Argentina, he will reach 50 caps — a significant personal milestone. Wings Max Jorgensen and Harry Potter have also been named in the 34-man squad, giving Kiss options out wide.
Overseas-based pair Tom Hooper and Taniela Tupou, both playing for Racing 92 in France, are included in the squad. Their selection reflects Kiss's willingness to look beyond domestic competition when building his group.
De Lutiis Set to Make History as Wallaby Number 1,000
Prop Massimo De Lutiis is poised to become the 1,000th player ever capped by the Wallabies. He scored on his debut and was one of five front-rowers to cross the line in Queensland's recent victory. Fellow forward Zane Nonggorr misses the tour due to injury, opening the door for De Lutiis to feature prominently.
Jock Campbell, named Queensland Reds' best player at the end-of-season awards, and Josh Flook have both been left out of the touring squad, according to Canberra Times. Their omissions show Kiss is sticking close to the group that delivered recent wins.
Kiss Targets Consistency and Depth on Argentina Tour
Coach Les Kiss said the goal is to build depth and keep raising the team's level. Harden Express reported Kiss made no changes to the core squad after his first two Tests in charge, stressing consistency as a key part of his approach. The squad assembles in Sydney before flying to Buenos Aires.
Australia faces a tough test in Argentina, a side they have already beaten at home. Playing away in San Salvador and Mendoza will demand more from the group. Kiss sees the tour as a chance to cement the gains made so far and push the squad's game to a new level.
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