Wallabies head coach Les Kiss has recently unveiled his squad for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup tests against New Zealand. The announcement includes a mix of familiar faces and some exciting new entries. A notable adjustment in the squad comes with the release of overseas-based players Tom Hooper and Taniela Tupou, who will be returning to their clubs in Europe. Stepping into the squad are Toby Macpherson, who receives his first call-up, and the returning Massimo de Lutiis, who will be taking Tupou's place.
The squad maintains continuity from recent matches, with 34 players called up, many of whom were part of the team that played against Argentina, Japan, and South Africa. Among them, Jared Wright makes a comeback, bringing depth to the forward pack. The lineup also sees the recovery of Filipo Daugunu, set after a knee issue, and Nick Frost being pulled in as a cover for an injured Josh Canham, still managing a hamstring problem from a previous game in Perth.
Another player whose participation hinges on a disciplinary decision is Hunter Paisami, following a yellow card incident during the last minutes against South Africa. Should he miss out, Jock Campbell is set to join the squad. Kiss expressed his satisfaction with the team selection, emphasizing the unity and motivation of his players. "They’re a motivated playing group who take pride in representing the gold jersey and each other, but we know Auckland is a huge challenge that will demand we be at our best," Kiss commented.
“It’s pleasing to keep the core of our squad together for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup Series against New Zealand,” Kiss noted.
The Wallabies are scheduled to face the All Blacks at Eden Park, Auckland on October 10, 2026, with a kick-off at 19:10 NZDT. The second match will take place a week later at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. These matches are pivotal as they not only serve as a test of the Wallabies' current form but also as a prelude to the strategies expected at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Here’s a look at the complete squad list for the Wallabies:
Forwards:
- Allan Alaalatoa
- Angus Bell
- Josh Canham
- Nick Champion de Crespigny
- Massimo De Lutiis
- Isaac Kailea
- Toby Macpherson
- Fraser McReight
- Josh Nasser
- Zane Nonggorr
- Brandon Paenga-Amosa
- Billy Pollard
- Aidan Ross
- Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
- Lachlan Shaw
- Carlo Tizzano
- Rob Valetini
- Jeremy Williams
- Harry Wilson
Backs:
- Filipo Daugunu
- Ben Donaldson
- Isaac Henry
- Len Ikitau
- Max Jorgensen
- Ryan Lonergan
- Tate McDermott
- Harry McLaughlin-Phillips
- Declan Meredith
- Hunter Paisami
- Jordan Petaia
- Harry Potter
- Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
- Kalani Thomas
- Tom Wright
Injury Cover:
Nick Frost
The matches will be broadcast across various networks ensuring fans do not miss the action. With strategic shifts in the lineup and new additions ready to prove their mettle, the Wallabies are gearing up for what promises to be an enthralling encounter with their long-standing rivals.
