Les Kiss gambles on Wallabies changes for Argentina rematch

Ben Donaldson will take charge of the Wallabies from the number 10 jersey for the first time in two years, while Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii returns to the starting lineup for Sunday’s rematch against Argentina in Mendoza.

Coach Les Kiss has changed his side after Australia’s tight win a week earlier. Carter Gordon, who was reportedly carrying an injury concern during the week, moves to the bench. Ryan Lonergan retains the scrum-half role, and Tom Wright will earn his 50th Test cap at fullback.

Len Ikitau and Suaalii will start together in the centres for the first time under Kiss. The pair regularly formed Australia’s midfield under former coach Joe Schmidt. Kiss has won all three of his Tests as coach. Filipo Daugunu will make his first start of the season on the wing, replacing Harry Potter.

The pack remains largely unchanged. Angus Bell, Taniela Tupou, Josh Canham and Jeremy Williams start, while Harry Wilson returns at number eight alongside Fraser McReight and Rob Valetini. Billy Pollard and Josh Nasser will share the hooking duties, with Brandon Paenga-Amosa rotated out.

Kalani Thomas replaces Reds teammate Tate McDermott as the reserve scrum-half. Aidan Ross and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto also join the bench. After six straight defeats, Australia is chasing a fifth consecutive victory, a run it has not achieved since 2021.