Two Fijian-born players, Filipo Daugunu and Rob Valetini, are set to represent the Wallabies in the highly anticipated second Bledisloe Cup test against the All Blacks in Perth. Daugunu has been elevated to the starting lineup, taking his place on the wing next to Harry Potter, while Valetini makes his much-awaited return from a calf injury, coming off the bench.
Daugunu, who is 30 years old, previously played off the bench during last week’s encounter, where the Wallabies faced a tough defeat against the All Blacks, ending with a score of 33-24 at Eden Park. Valetini’s return adds strength and experience to the squad, especially as he has been sidelined due to his injury.
In a shakeup designed to reinvigorate the team’s dynamics, Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has made several key changes. Tane Edmed has been chosen to start at fly-half, replacing veteran playmaker James O’Connor, who will now take up a place on the bench. The front row will see the return of skipper Allan Alaalatoa, complemented by Will Skelton and Nick Frost forming a formidable second-row partnership.
The complete starting XV includes James Slipper, Billy Pollard, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick Frost, Will Skelton, Tom Hooper, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson, Jake Gordon, Tane Edmed, Filipo Daugunu, Len Ikitau, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Harry Potter, and Max Jorgensen. Meanwhile, the bench will comprise Josh Nasser, Tom Robertson, Taniela Tupou, Jeremy Williams, Rob Valetini, Ryan Lonergan, James O’Connor, and Josh Flook.
The Wallabies will step onto the field at Optus Stadium in Perth at 9:45 PM tomorrow, aiming to turn the tide against their historic rivals and bring renewed vigor to their campaign. With the inclusion of Daugunu and Valetini, fans are hopeful for a strong performance that melds the exciting potential of fresh talent with the experience of seasoned players. As the teams prepare for this classic rugby showdown, the electric atmosphere promises a spectacle of skill and determination.