Carter Gordon is set to make a notable return for the Wallabies this Saturday against Italy. This match will mark his first appearance since rejoining rugby union after a tenure in the NRL with the Gold Coast Titans. Gordon, 24, last played for Australia during the 2023 Rugby World Cup in Udine.
Recent Changes to the Wallabies Squad
The Wallabies have made several adjustments to their lineup following a 25-7 defeat to England. In total, there are four key changes in both the backs and the pack.
Backline Adjustments
- Carter Gordon will take on the fly-half role.
- Corey Toole is slated to start on the wing, taking over from Max Jorgensen.
Forward Lineup Modifications
- Matt Faessler returns at hooker, recovering from a calf injury after missing the British & Irish Lions series.
- Tom Hooper, an Exeter Chiefs signing, will start in the flank position.
- Rob Valetini has been moved to the bench to accommodate Hooper’s selection.
Head Coach’s Insights
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt expressed confidence in his team, stating they have had a productive week of training. Schmidt emphasized the need for improvement against Italy, acknowledging their confidence stemming from a strong showing in the Six Nations earlier this year.
Projected Wallabies Lineup
| Position | Name | Matches | Club |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | Andrew Kellaway | 47 | Hunters Hill Rugby Club |
| 14 | Corey Toole | 5 | Wagga Crows |
| 13 | Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii | 15 | The Kings School |
| 12 | Hunter Paisami | 34 | Harlequin Rugby Club |
| 11 | Harry Potter | 8 | Moorabbin Rams |
| 10 | Carter Gordon | 8 | Sunshine Coast Grammar School |
| 9 | Jake Gordon | 34 | Canterbury Juniors |
| 1 | Angus Bell | 47 | Hunters Hill Rugby Club |
| 2 | Matt Faessler | 15 | USQ Saints |
| 3 | Taniela Tupou | 66 | Brothers Rugby |
| 4 | Nick Frost | 35 | Hornsby Lions |
| 5 | Jeremy Williams | 22 | Wahroonga Tigers |
| 6 | Tom Hooper | 19 | Bathurst Bulldogs |
| 7 | Fraser McReight | 36 | Albany Creek Brumbies |
| 8 | Harry Wilson (C) | 33 | Gunnedah Red Devils |
Bench Strength
- Billy Pollard (18 Tests) – Lindfield Junior
- Aidan Ross (1 Test) – Bond University
- Zane Nonggorr (17 Tests) – Gold Coast Eagles
- Rob Valetini (59 Tests) – Harlequin Rugby Club
- Pete Samu (33 Tests) – Moorabbin Rams
- Ryan Lonergan (3 Tests) – Tuggeranong Vikings
- Tane Edmed (6 Tests) – West Harbour Juniors
- Filipo Daugunu (17 Tests) – Wests Bulldogs
The Wallabies face a crucial test on Saturday as they aim to bounce back and secure a victory against Italy.
