New Wallabies head coach Les Kiss has named his first squad since taking over from Joe Schmidt, announcing a 34-man group for next month's two-test series against Japan.
Kiss, who previously served on Schmidt's coaching staff with Ireland from 2013 to 2015, has made several changes to the squad that completed the Nations Championship window last weekend. The most notable absentee is veteran prop James Slipper, Australia's most-capped men's player with 151 test appearances, who is replaced as a loosehead option by Isaac Kailea.
Lukhan Salakaia-Loto returns to the international fold after a period outside the test picture under Schmidt, while centre Isaac Henry is the only uncapped player in the squad. Kiss said the recall of the Queensland Reds forward came after robust discussions with his coaching panel.
"He's worked hard ... he's ready," Kiss said. "I want players to be themselves, bring their personalities to the fore. I want them to know our strength is in our diversity and who we are."
The squad will be captained by number eight Harry Wilson, leading a group of 19 forwards and 15 backs. Len Ikitau (ankle) and Tom Hooper (shoulder) were ruled out through injury.
Australia open their tour against Japan at Osaka's Panasonic Stadium on August 8 before returning home to face the Brave Blossoms again in Townsville, Queensland, on August 15. The squad is scheduled to depart Sydney for Japan on August 1.
Kiss acknowledged his appointment marks a new chapter for the Wallabies after Schmidt's departure, following the team's 57-10 victory over Italy in Perth in what proved to be his predecessor's final match in charge.
"I won't be afraid to look overseas," Kiss said of future selection policy, "but respect what we've got here. How that manifests, we'll find out. I'll just be me, driving what it is to be a new 'us'."
The Wallabies opened their Nations Championship campaign with losses to Ireland in Sydney and France in Brisbane before defeating Italy in Perth, Schmidt's last game before Kiss formally took the reins through to the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Sources
- https://apnews.com/article/kiss-rugby-australia-japan-9342974beefddcdfd4179ed1bd6ac134
