Seasoned Prop Slipper to Lead Australia Against Wales in Melbourne

Veteran loosehead prop James Slipper will captain the Wallabies for the 15th time this weekend, as Australia hosts Wales at AAMI Park in Melbourne. Slipper takes over the armband from last week’s skipper Liam Wright, who has been ruled out due to injury.

Team Composition

Head coach Joe Schmidt has retained the same front-row, with hooker Matt Faessler and powerhouse tighthead Taniela Tupou, the latter having recovered from a knock sustained in the previous outing. Jeremy Williams impressed on his Test debut and has been rewarded with another start, lining up alongside the physical Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in the second row.

The withdrawal of Liam Wright has necessitated a reshuffle in the back-row, with star player Rob Valetini shifting to the blindside flank, while the highly-rated Charlie Cale earns his first start. Completing the loose trio is the tireless openside Fraser McReight.

There are no changes to the backline, with Jake Gordon and Noah Lolesio continuing as the half-back pairing. The Reds duo of Hunter Paisami and Josh Flook retain their midfield partnership, while the back three of Filipo Daugunu, Andrew Kellaway and Tom Wright also remains intact.

“We found out a bit about ourselves last week and are looking forward to learning a bit more on Saturday night,” – Coach Joe Schmidt

Substitutes

Hooker Josh Nasser is set to potentially become the 13th father-son pair to represent the Wallabies, with his father Brendan having also donned the Australia jersey, if he features from the bench. Isaac Kailea and Allan Alaalatoa provide front-row cover, while Angus Blyth and Langi Gleeson are the other forward options. Nic White, Ben Donaldson and Dylan Pietsch offer backline depth.

The match kicks off at 19:45 local time (10:45 BST, 09:45 GMT) at AAMI Park in Melbourne, with Georgian referee Nika Amashukeli taking charge, assisted by Matthew Carley of England and Paul Williams of New Zealand. New Zealand’s Glenn Newman will serve as the Television Match Official (TMO).

🔗 Source