mens
international
Wallabies head coach Les Kiss has backed newly minted Test player Declan Meredith to steer the ship against All black people in Sydney this week, with Harry McLaughlin-Phillips potentially making his debut from the bench.
McLaughlin-Phillips, 22, is new to the Western front Force to the Super AUS title and made the cut ahead of last week’s starter and hero of last month’s win over South Africa, Ben Donaldson. Meredith, meanwhile, had just three Tests in his Wallabies career, guiding the team to victories Japan and Italy after the defeat of France in his debut.
As well as doubling up on fresh blood in the playmaking role, Kiss looked to bolster their bench by moving star loosehead Angus Bell into an impact role, with former All Black Aidan Ross promoted to the starting side.
Isaac Henry takes over for the injured Len Ikitau and links up with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in midfield, with Harry Potter coming in on the left wing and Filipo Daugunu coming in at No.23 at the end of the bench.
Josh Canham’s return to fitness also sees him join the bench alongside Carlo Tizzano and Kalani Thomas, who replace Nick Champion de Crespigny and Tate McDermott respectively.
“Last weekend we got a clear picture of where we need to be better,” Kiss said. “We have said all along that we will continue to work hard and develop our game, and the team has been impressive in the way they have prepared this week.
“This Saturday will be a great opportunity with the Wallaroos and Sevens teams also playing in our backyard.
“Playing our last Test on home soil for 2026 is a huge motivation and we are determined to put in a performance that all Australians can be proud of.”
The Wallabies team to play the All Blacks
- Aidan Ross (8 tests) – #994; Bond University
- Josh Nasser (17 Tests) – #979; Easts Rugby (Brisbane)
- Allan Alaalatoa (95 Tests) #896; West Harbor Juniors
- Jeremy Williams (34 tests) – #973; Wahroonga Tigers
- Lukhan Salakaia-Lotto (49 Tests) – #914; Randwick Rugby
- Rob Valitini (70 tests) – #929; Harlequin Junior Rugby Club
- Fraser McReight (48 Tests) – #937; Albany Creek Brumbies
- Harry Wilson (c) (44 tests) – #933; Gunnedah Red Devils
- Ryan Lonergan (14 Tests) – #993; Tuggeranong Vikings
- Declan Meredith (3 tests) – #997; Barron Trinity Bulls
- Harry Potter (17 tests) – #989; Moorabbin Rams
- Isaac Henry (5 tests) – #999; Kenmore Bears
- Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (26 tests) – #988; The Kings School
- Max Jorgensen (29 tests) – #984; Balmain Wolves
- Tom Wright (52 Tests) – #939; Clovelly Eagles
Substitutions
16. Billy Pollard (25 Tests) – #958; Lindfield Junior Rugby Club
17. Angus Bell (59 Tests) – #940; Hunters Hill Rugby Club
18. Massimo De Lutiis (4 tests) – #1000; Surfers Paradise Dolphins
19. Josh Canham (8 Tests) – #987; Harlequin Junior Rugby Club
20. Carlo Tizzano (17 tests) – #982; University of Western Australia
21. Kalani Thomas (2 tests) – #995; Springfield Hawks
22. Harry McLaughlin-Phillips* – uncapped; Gunnedah Red Devils
23. Filipo Daugunu (24 tests) – #931; Wests Bulldogs
