Joe Schmidt Overhauls Wallabies Lineup Appoints New Captain for Japan Showdown
In a significant reshuffle, Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt has announced a revamped lineup for the upcoming match against Japan. This encounter will take place on Saturday, October 25, at National Stadium in Tokyo.
New Captain and Lineup Changes
- Nick Champion de Crespigny has been appointed as the new captain.
- He becomes the Wallabies’ 92nd captain and the sixth during Schmidt’s tenure.
- Thirteen changes have been made to the starting lineup since their last game against the All Blacks.
- Regular skipper Harry Wilson will start from the bench.
Squad Details
Multiple players are missing from the matchday squad, including:
- Fraser McReight
- Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
- Max Jorgensen
- Taniela Tupou
- Len Ikitau, who will play for Exeter Chiefs
- Tom Hooper, also with Exeter Chiefs
However, the halfback duo of Tane Edmed and Jake Gordon retains their starting positions. The backline features:
- Hunter Paisami and Josh Flook in midfield
- Andrew Kellaway at full-back
- Corey Toole and Dylan Pietsch on the wings
In the forward pack, Josh Nasser is the starting hooker, joined by props Angus Bell and Zane Nongorr. The locks consist of Jeremy Williams and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, while the back row includes:
- Nick Champion de Crespigny (captain)
- Carlo Tizzano (flanker)
- Rob Valetini (number eight)
Bench Strength and Debut Threat
Aidan Ross, a former All Blacks prop, is set to make his Wallabies debut. He will be the fifth player to represent both New Zealand and Australia. The replacement bench includes:
- Harry Wilson
- Josh Canham
- Tom Robertson
- Billy Pollard
- Ryan Lonergan
- Hamish Stewart
- Filipo Daugunu
Future Challenges
The Wallabies remain undefeated against Japan, and this match marks the beginning of their end-of-year tour. Following Japan, they will face England, Italy, Ireland, and France. Coach Joe Schmidt has expressed confidence in the team’s preparation.
“The players have adapted well in Tokyo, and we understand the challenge posed by the Brave Blossoms,” he said, highlighting their strong home advantage and competitive nature.
Match Details
| Date | Venue | Kick-off Time |
|---|---|---|
| October 25 | National Stadium, Tokyo | 14:50 local (16:50 AEDT, 06:50 BST, 05:50 GMT) |
Referee: Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand)
Assistant referees: Angus Mabey (New Zealand), Morgan White (Hong Kong)
TMO: Richard Kelly (New Zealand)
FPRO: Matt Rodden (HKCR)
