Wallabies squad for Springbok Test announced

Australia’s national rugby side, the Wallabies, will gather in Perth on Friday to begin preparations for a high‑stakes test against the reigning world champions, the Springboks. Coach Joe Kiss has released a 35‑man squad that mixes seasoned campaigners with fresh talent, signalling a strategic shift after a mixed run of results in recent internationals.

Key returns and fresh faces

One of the most eye‑catching selections is the comeback of 26‑year‑old winger Jordan Petaia. The former Wallaby, who has been plying his trade in Japan’s Rugby League One with the Urayasu D‑Rocks, last wore the green and gold at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. After a brief foray into the NFL – including a trial with the Los Angeles Chargers – Petaia returned to rugby in Europe, turning out twelve times for Top 14 club Perpignan during the 2024/25 season. His speed and defensive acumen are expected to add a new dimension to the back‑line.

Joining him is 24‑year‑old Harry McLaughlin‑Phillips, an uncapped fly‑half who earned his spot as cover for the injured Carter Gordon. McLaughlin‑Phillips impressed in Super Rugby AUS, kicking the decisive points for the Western Force against his former side, the Queensland Reds. He also represented Australia at the 2023 and 2024 World Rugby U20 Championships and was part of the broader Wallabies training group during the Nations Championship matches against Ireland, France and Italy.

Front‑row reshuffle and injury updates

Prop Zane Nonggorr makes a return after a calf injury forced him out of the previous squad. The Queensland Reds forward replaces Massimo De Lutiis, who remains sidelined. In a similar vein, Reds centre Jock Campbell has been added as a late replacement for the injured Dylan Pietsch, offering additional depth in the midfield.

The forward pack also retains stalwarts such as captain Harry Wilson, lock Taniela Tupou, and back‑rower Allan Alaalatoa, all of whom bring a blend of experience and physicality that will be crucial against South Africa’s powerful set‑piece.

Recent form and the road to Perth

The Wallabies arrive in Perth on the back of a 2‑0 series win over Argentina, a performance that restored some confidence after a disappointing Nations Championship. However, the Springboks come in hot, having clinched a 3‑1 series triumph over the All Blacks, highlighted by a 43‑28 victory in Baltimore. South Africa’s blend of physical dominance and tactical kicking has set a high benchmark in world rugby, and Kiss acknowledges the magnitude of the challenge.

“We’ve learned a lot about our collective strengths and weaknesses over the last four tests,” Kiss said in a press briefing. “South Africa remains the standard‑bearer in international rugby, and we’re driven to meet that standard on home soil in two weeks’ time.”

Full squad list

Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Charlie Cale, Josh Canham, Tom Hooper, Isaac Kailea, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Zane Nonggorr, Brandon Paenga‑Amosa, Billy Pollard, Aidan Ross, Lukhan Salakaia‑Loto, Lachlan Shaw, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson (c).

Backs: Jock Campbell, Ben Donaldson, Isaac Henry, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Ryan Lonergan, Tate McDermott, Harry McLaughlin‑Phillips, Declan Meredith, Hunter Paisami, Jordan Petaia, Harry Potter, Joseph‑Aukuso Suaalii, Kalani Thomas, Tom Wright.

What to expect from the Perth test

The upcoming match is more than a single fixture; it is a litmus test for the Wallabies’ rebuilding phase under Kiss. Analysts point to the importance of a solid defensive line, a reliable goal‑kicking platform, and the ability to counter South Africa’s aggressive breakdown tactics. With the inclusion of players like Petaia, who brings a fresh attacking edge, and McLaughlin‑Phillips, who offers depth at fly‑half, the Wallabies hope to blend creativity with resilience.

Fans can also anticipate a tactical battle between Kiss and Springbok head coach Jacques Nienaber, whose side has perfected a forward‑driven, high‑tempo style. The outcome will likely influence squad selections for the remaining fixtures in the series and could shape the Wallabies’ roadmap toward the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which South Africa will host.

As the Wallabies fine‑tune their game plan in Perth, the rugby world will be watching to see whether the blend of returning veterans and emerging talent can rise to the occasion against the world’s most formidable side.