Kiss Kicks Off New Wallabies Era
New Wallabies Coach Les Kiss Names First Squad, Including Uncapped, Versatile Isaac Henry
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Key Points
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Isaac Henry’s versatility extends to wing as well, in addition to showing strong capability at 12 or 13.
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Lukhan Salakaia-Loto was recalled after being a surprise omission from the Nations Championship squad.
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Isaac Kailea replaces James Slipper, who was rested after returning from international retirement to feature in the Nations Championship.
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Carter Gordon is retained despite having suffered a calf strain in the loss to Ireland.
New Wallabies coach Les Kiss has named his first squad — a 34-man group to face Japan in back-to-back Tests in August. Rugby.com.au reports the only uncapped player is Queensland Reds centre Isaac Henry, who Kiss called a hardworking talent capable of covering multiple positions including wing, 12, and 13.
The squad marks a clear shift in direction after Australia's six-game losing streak under former coach Joe Schmidt. Kiss is building toward a World Cup on home soil and wants players who can deliver high-intensity rugby across both Tests — in Osaka and Townsville.
Isaac Henry Gets His Shot After Injury Struggles
Henry is the sole debutant in Kiss's first squad. The Queensland Reds centre spent years battling injuries before breaking through this Super Rugby season. Kiss backed him publicly, saying his ability to play wing, inside centre, or outside centre makes him a valuable squad asset. Wallabies Rugby reported Kiss praised Henry as a "hard-grafting" player who has earned his place.
Henry's inclusion shows Kiss values versatility. With Len Ikitau ruled out through injury, there is a genuine opening in the midfield. Henry could slot in at 12 or 13 depending on team needs. At just one uncapped player in a 34-man squad, Kiss is not flooding the group with unknowns — he is being selective.
Salakaia-Loto Returns, Slipper Gets a Rest
Lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto is back after being left out of the Nations Championship squad — a surprise omission at the time. His recall signals Kiss wants experienced, physical players in the forward pack. Captain Harry Wilson is retained to provide leadership continuity.
Prop James Slipper, who came out of international retirement to play in the Nations Championship, has been rested. Isaac Kailea steps in to fill that spot. Beloit Daily News noted Slipper's return from retirement was long-anticipated, but Kiss is managing his workload carefully as the World Cup cycle begins.
Carter Gordon Retained Despite Calf Injury
Flyhalf Carter Gordon keeps his spot even after suffering a calf strain in Australia's loss to Ireland. Kiss kept faith in Gordon rather than forcing a change. The Nations Championship — which Australia won against Italy — gave Kiss some momentum to build on before this Japan series.
Kiss wants the squad to hit the ground running. He has stressed the need for players to perform across both Tests, not just one. With back-to-back games in Osaka and Townsville, fitness and consistency will be key. The Japan series is a chance to set the tone for his entire coaching tenure.
Kiss Builds Cohesion With an Eye on 2027 World Cup
Australia will host the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which gives Kiss both time and pressure. He is not rebuilding from scratch — he is refining. Most of the 34-man squad are established Test players. The mix of veterans and recalled players suggests Kiss wants a stable core he can develop over the next two years.
The Japan Tests are low-stakes by World Cup standards, but they matter for squad culture. Kiss wants high intensity and cohesion from day one. Naming just one uncapped player shows he is not experimenting wildly — he is laying a foundation. The Wallabies' World Cup ambitions start here.
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