Key players Will Skelton and Rob Valetini will rejoin the Australian Wallabies for their final Rugby Championship match against New Zealand in Perth next weekend. However, scrumhalf Tate McDermott is likely to miss out due to a hamstring injury sustained in the recent 33-24 loss to the All Blacks in Auckland. The team has announced that Nic White will come out of retirement temporarily to support the squad in McDermott’s absence.
Coach Joe Schmidt revealed that McDermott’s injury “doesn’t look great,” but expressed gratitude for White’s continued support. Despite this setback, Australia still has an opportunity to claim the Rugby Championship title for the first time since 2015 if they can defeat New Zealand and Argentina wins against South Africa.
Will Skelton returns after playing with his French club, while Rob Valetini, who has faced a recurring calf problem this year, also reclaims his spot in the team. Meanwhile, center Josh Flook is back with the squad, eager for action after not getting a chance to play on the South African tour.
Schmidt has assured fans that influential player Len Ikitau is fit to play, even though he was substituted due to a virus in the previous match. Despite the challenges, the coach conveyed a sense of determination to improve the team’s performance, emphasizing the need to address issues such as missed tackles observed against the All Blacks.
Australia’s potential to clinch the Rugby Championship adds an exciting layer to the upcoming match, ensuring it remains highly anticipated despite their disappointment at losing the Bledisloe Cup. With the inclusion of strong players like Skelton and Valetini, the Wallabies aim to end the season on a triumphant note. The next clash against New Zealand promises to be a thrilling test of skill and resilience.