Wallabies bring new coach and winning streak to Argentina tour
By Theo BrennanAustralia's national rugby team, the Wallabies, will bring a 34-man roster and a three-match winning streak to Argentina for a two-Test series against Los Pumas. This tour serves as a substitute for the Rugby Championship, with New Zealand and South Africa playing a separate series this year.
Led by newly appointed head coach Les Kiss, the Wallabies will face Argentina in Jujuy on August 29 and then in Mendoza on September 5. The team’s recent form includes two victories over Japan and a win against Italy, all secured since Kiss took the helm.
Wallabies roster features experienced leaders
The 34-player squad, notably one more than typical Rugby World Cup rosters, includes several highly-capped individuals. Back-rower Harry Wilson, with 41 caps, will captain the team, while fellow loose forwards Fraser McReight (44 caps) and Rob Valetini (66 caps) add significant experience. Prop Allan Alaalatoa is the most experienced player on the roster, boasting 92 caps Americas Rugby News details the squad.
Fullback Tom Wright is poised to reach a career milestone, needing to feature in both Test matches to hit his 50th cap. The squad also includes key players such as Angus Bell (55 caps) and Tate McDermott (55 caps).
Kiss’ selections feature a blend of established talent and developing players. Second-rower Miles Amatosero was not considered for selection due to a suspension that makes him unavailable for the first Test. The Wallabies are preparing to host Rugby World Cup 2027, where they are scheduled to open their campaign against Hong Kong in Perth, followed by pool matches against Chile and New Zealand.
Argentina series replaces Rugby Championship fixtures
The two-Test series against Argentina steps in after New Zealand and South Africa opted to play their own series. This adjustment impacts the broader landscape of international rugby news in the southern hemisphere for this season. The matches will take place at Estadio 23 de Agosto in San Salvador de Jujuy and Estádio Malvinas Argentinas in Mendoza, Argentina.
This tour offers a crucial opportunity for the Wallabies under Kiss to continue building momentum. Their recent victories underscore a positive start to Kiss's tenure, setting a confident tone as they approach this South American challenge. The squad composition, with its mix of veteran leadership and emerging talent, suggests a focus on both immediate performance and future development towards the next World Cup cycle.