Veteran Fly-Half James O'Connor Misses Out

Veteran fly-half James O'Connor has been left out of Australia's squad for their only warm-up match against Fiji, signaling a potential miss in facing the British and Irish Lions this summer. The 34-year-old, who has earned 64 caps for the Wallabies, was anticipated to make a return to Joe Schmidt's squad after a three-year hiatus. However, the selection committee has chosen Ben Donaldson, Tom Lynagh, and Noah Lolesio over the Crusaders' O'Connor.

Joe Schmidt on Squad Selection

"Selection is always tight and there'll be players who are excited and those that are disappointed," Schmidt commented. "There was a lot of healthy, robust discussion and we think we've selected a group that will work hard and connect well as a squad."

New Additions and Returns

New South Wales Waratahs back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii has been included in the 36-man squad following his recovery from a fractured jaw. The 21-year-old underwent surgery last month, raising concerns about his availability for the Tests against the Lions. Additionally, David Porecki has been recalled to the squad for the first time since captaining Australia at the 2023 World Cup, where the Wallabies failed to advance from the group stage for the first time.

Overseas Representation

La Rochelle lock Will Skelton stands as the only overseas-based player in the Wallabies' squad, highlighting the team's reliance on domestic talent.

Full Squad List

Backs: Filipo Daugunu, Ben Donaldson, Jake Gordon, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Noah Lolesio, Tom Lynagh, Tate McDermott, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Corey Toole, Nic White, Tom Wright.

Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Nick Champion De Crespigny, Matt Faessler, Nick Frost, Langi Gleeson, Tom Hooper, Fraser McReight, Zane Nonggorr, Billy Pollard, David Porecki, Tom Robertson, Will Skelton, James Slipper, Darcy Swain, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson.