Tane Edmed to Start as Fly-Half for Australia at Allianz Stadium
Tane Edmed will take on the role of fly-half for Australia as they prepare to square off against England at Allianz Stadium this Saturday. This announcement comes as the team faces some challenges due to the absence of various European-based players, including James O’Connor and Will Skelton, due to the match falling outside the official international window.
Tane Edmed: A New Challenge
Edmed, who has only started three Tests during his burgeoning career, will be tested against England’s experienced fly-half, George Ford. His teammate, Carter Gordon, won’t be part of the matchday roster due to a quad strain, prompting Hamish Stewart to serve as fly-half cover on the bench.
Noteworthy Recalls
- Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
- Max Jorgensen
- Taniela Tupou
Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, who previously made a memorable Test debut, returns after a standout performance last year against England. Meanwhile, Hunter Paisami will step in alongside Suaalii in the center, filling in for Len Ikitau, who has been in outstanding form for Exeter.
Powerful Line-up
Taniela Tupou, known as the ‘Tongan Thor’, is back after a stint away following a defeat to New Zealand in September. Regular captain Harry Wilson will reclaim the number eight position, supported by Rob Valetini and Fraser McReight, forming a formidable back row. Nick Champion de Crespigny, who captained the team last week, is included among the substitutes.
| Australia Starting XV |
|---|
| Kellaway |
| Jorgensen |
| Suaalii |
| Paisami |
| Potter |
| Edmed |
| Gordon |
| Bell |
| Pollard |
| Tupou |
| Frost |
| Williams |
| Valetini |
| McReight |
| Wilson (capt) |
Upcoming Matches and Performance
Australia recently finished third in the Rugby Championship, securing two wins from six matches. Their recent victory against Japan, 19-15, featured a significantly altered lineup as they headed into the subsequent clash with England. Head coach Joe Schmidt noted the effort to manage a challenging schedule and player freshness in anticipation of the competitive atmosphere ahead.
The Wallabies, currently ranked seventh in the world, will also face Italy, Ireland, and France in the coming autumn fixtures, looking to build momentum after their recent performances.
