Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has chosen to focus on emerging talent by excluding seasoned players like James O’Connor, Bernard Foley, and Kurtley Beale from his first squad of 2025. Injuries also sidelined veteran forwards Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Brandon Paenga-Amosa, both of whom struggled during the Super Rugby season. The 36-man squad, set to prepare for a Test against Fiji on July 6 in Newcastle, includes uncapped players Corey Toole from the Brumbies and Nick Champion de Crespigny from the Force.
Expectations were met with the inclusion of Taniela Tupou, despite a lacklustre season and his own doubts about deserving selection. Schmidt has not yet appointed a captain but is expected to address the media in Sydney alongside players Allan Alaalatoa, Jake Gordon, Max Jorgensen, and Will Skelton.
Making a return to the squad is NSW hooker David Porecki, who last captained the team during the 2023 Rugby World Cup. However, there was no place for Japan-based centre Samu Kerevi or winger Marika Koroibete. Schmidt noted the difficulty of selection and recognised the mix of excitement and disappointment among players.
On July 11, Schmidt will announce the squad for the upcoming British and Irish Lions series. Some familiar names, including Darcy Swain and Nic White, have secured spots, while Brumbies star Ryan Lonergan narrowly missed out on the third halfback position.
The coach emphasised the intense discussions among selectors, stating that the squad will focus on immediate performance and cohesion. This squad marks a blend of continuity and fresh faces aiming to make an impact in the upcoming match against Fiji, especially after not being together since January.
The squad will gather on Sunday without five Force players who will remain in Perth to prepare for an upcoming match against the Lions. Meanwhile, several others, including Lonergan and Tane Edmed, will train with the Wallabies. De Crespigny, a versatile player with a history in France, and Corey Toole, a rapid player who competed in the Paris Olympics, are highlights in the new selection.
Injuries prevented players like Charlie Cale and Massimo De Lutiis from being considered for selection. Prior to facing the Lions, the team is keenly anticipating the Lions’ initial match against Argentina.
Wallabies Squad:
Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Nick Champion De Crespigny, 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.
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.