The Wallabies have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their upcoming fixtures, with star players Rob Valetini and Will Skelton ruled out due to injuries. The news comes as new head coach Joe Schmidt begins his tenure, adding immediate pressure to his debut campaign.
Key Players Sidelined
Rob Valetini, the powerhouse back-rower, and Will Skelton, the towering lock, are both unavailable for selection. Valetini is nursing a knee injury, while Skelton is recovering from a calf strain. Their absence leaves a considerable gap in Australia's forward pack, which will test Schmidt's tactical adaptability early in his reign.
Schmidt's Challenge
Joe Schmidt, who took over as Wallabies coach following Eddie Jones' departure, now faces an uphill battle to stabilise the squad. With two of his most experienced forwards out, he must rely on emerging talent to step up in crucial positions.
"It's never ideal to lose players of their calibre," Schmidt admitted in a press briefing. "But injuries are part of the game, and this is an opportunity for others to prove their worth."
Replacement Options
Potential replacements include young guns like Langi Gleeson and Nick Frost, who have shown promise in domestic competitions. However, the lack of Test-level experience among the backups could be a concern against top-tier opposition.
The Wallabies' next fixtures will be a true test of depth and resilience, with fans eager to see how Schmidt navigates this early crisis.
