In a bold move, Wallabies coach Les Kiss has included Hunter Paisami in his squad for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup Tests against the All Blacks, despite Paisami currently contesting a suspension. The centre received a yellow card during the closing minutes of a thrilling 42-38 win over South Africa, following a high and dangerous tackle on Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. The final decision on Paisami’s availability will hinge on the disciplinary committee's verdict due this Wednesday.
If Paisami is sidelined, Jock Campbell is set to step into the breach for the Wallabies. Maintaining continuity, Kiss has largely preserved the squad's core that has recently faced Argentina, Japan, and the Springboks. Nevertheless, the lineup has seen some alterations due to overseas commitments.
Forwards Tom Hooper and Taniela Tupou have returned to their clubs, Exeter Chiefs and Racing 92 respectively. Their departures paved the way for Toby Macpherson, who receives his first call-up, and a recall for Massimo De Lutiis. The backline sees the return of Filipo Daugunu, fresh from a knee injury recovery, while Nick Frost comes in as a cover for the injured Josh Canham.
The Wallabies squad for the Bledisloe Cup is as follows:
Forwards:
1. Allan Alaalatoa
2. Angus Bell
3. Josh Canham
4. Nick Champion de Crespigny
5. Massimo De Lutiis
6. Isaac Kailea
7. Toby Macpherson
8. Fraser McReight
9. Josh Nasser
10. Zane Nonggorr
11. Brandon Paenga-Amosa
12. Billy Pollard
13. Aidan Ross
14. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
15. Lachlan Shaw
16. Carlo Tizzano
17. Rob Valetini
18. Jeremy Williams
19. Harry Wilson
Backs:
20. Filipo Daugunu
21. Ben Donaldson
22. Isaac Henry
23. Len Ikitau
24. Max Jorgensen
25. Ryan Lonergan
26. Tate McDermott
27. Harry McLaughlin-Phillips
28. Declan Meredith
29. Hunter Paisami
30. Jordan Petaia
31. Harry Potter
32. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
33. Kalani Thomas
34. Tom Wright
This well-rounded squad selection underscores Kiss’s strategy to blend seasoned players with new talent, aiming for a robust performance against the formidable All Blacks. The inclusion of Paisami, despite his pending suspension, signals a high-stakes gamble that Kiss seems willing to take, demonstrating his commitment to securing a competitive edge in the upcoming tests.
