Tom Wright, who initiated his Wallabies career against New Zealand in 2020, is set to be a key player in the starting XV. Joining him in the back three are Max Jorgensen and Filipo Daugunu, the latter making his first wing start since facing Ireland in Dublin last year.
In the midfield, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii pairs up with Len Ikitau, reviving a partnership that has been seen in 16 of the last 25 tests. Their synergy will be crucial in penetrating Argentina’s defenses. Additionally, Ben Donaldson takes on the flyhalf role, another significant alteration as he dons the number 10 jersey for the first time since 2024, pairing with scrum-half Ryan Lonergan who has started every test this season.
"After a physical Test last week, we’ve brought in some fresh bodies alongside some existing combinations as we continue to look to build Test experience across the group. We’re expecting a strong response from Argentina on Saturday, and we know we will need to keep stepping up our game in all areas."
Leadership on the field will see a shift as Harry Wilson returns as captain, operating from the number eight spot, taking over from Rob Valetini who moves to the blindside flank. The back row is completed by Fraser McReight, last weekend’s man of the match. Upfront, seasoned props Angus Bell and Taniela Tupou rejoin the starting XV, teaming up with hooker Billy Pollard.
The second-row will feature Jeremy Williams and Josh Canham, tasked with ensuring lineout efficiency and providing necessary support in the scrums. Off the bench, an all-Queensland Reds trio consisting of hooker Josh Nasser and props Aidan Ross and Massimo De Lutiis will be ready to add energy in the later stages of the game.
Lukhan Salakaia-Loto serves as the substitute lock, bringing additional muscle and height to the lineup if needed. The back-row cover comes from Charlie Cale, while Kalani Thomas, Carter Gordon, and Isaac Henry round out the bench, ensuring Kiss has options for tactical shifts during the game.
The following is the Wallabies team lineup for the match against Argentina: 1. Angus Bell 2. Billy Pollard 3. Taniela Tupou 4. Josh Canham 5. Jeremy Williams 6. Rob Valetini 7. Fraser McReight 8. Harry Wilson (c) 9. Ryan Lonergan 10. Ben Donaldson 11. Filipo Daugunu 12. Len Ikitau 13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii 14. Max Jorgensen 15. Tom Wright Substitutes: 16. Josh Nasser 17. Aidan Ross 18. Massimo De Lutiis 19. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto 20. Charlie Cale 21. Kalani Thomas 22. Carter Gordon 23. Isaac Henry
The team is geared up for a robust challenge from Los Pumas as the Wallabies aim to build on their recent successes and push further up the rankings. With the blend of fresh talent and experienced heads, Kiss' team is morphing into a formidable force, promising an enthralling encounter this weekend in Mendoza.
