Carter Gordon will start at flyhalf for the Wallabies in Saturday's Test against Japan in Townsville, having overcome a calf injury. The 25-year-old partners Ryan Lonergan in the halves in what coach Les Kiss described as a 'balanced selection' after last week's physically taxing win in Osaka.
Gordon's return and selection changes
Gordon replaces Declan Meredith, who was dropped after an inconsistent performance in Japan. The flyhalf returned to union last year after a stint in the NRL and has had a disrupted season, suffering a quad injury in November's Test against Italy and then straining his calf in his first Test this year against Ireland last month.
Ben Donaldson provides backup from the bench. Gordon and Donaldson are two of the seven players to have worn the No 10 jersey since Joe Schmidt took over in 2024.
Coach's perspective and team news
"The coaches have looked to find some balance in the selection after what was a physically taxing Test week in the heat in Japan," Kiss said. "The whole group has worked hard this week and we know where we need to improve. This Saturday in Townsville gives us an opportunity to grow and strengthen our game on home soil in front of our supporters."
Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is missing with a hamstring injury described as 'minor', joining Len Ikitau on the sidelines. Isaac Henry earns his first Test start at outside centre after debuting last week, partnering Reds teammate Hunter Paisami in the midfield.
Forward pack changes and milestone
In the forwards, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto is named for his first Test this season in the second row alongside Lachlan Shaw, who makes his first start. Flanker Charlie Cale also starts for the first time, with Carlo Tizzano at No 7 and captain Harry Wilson at No 8. Taniela Tupou and Angus Bell start in the front row with Josh Nasser at hooker.
Prop Massimo De Lutiis is on the bench and, if he comes on for his Test debut, will become the 1,000th player capped for the Wallabies.
