Home Sports Wallabies playmaker gets the call-up after a tough three-minute debut, with Tom Lynagh sidelined.

Wallabies playmaker gets the call-up after a tough three-minute debut, with Tom Lynagh sidelined.

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The Wallabies’ squad, under coach Joe Schmidt, faces a significant challenge during their upcoming tour in South Africa, following a series of injuries that have sidelined key players. Notably, Allan Alaalatoa, Tom Lynagh, Jake Gordon, and Matt Faessler are among those ruled out, joining Noah Lolesio and Harry Potter in an increasing list of absentees.

The squad now includes Tane Edmed, who steps in after Lynagh was benched due to concussion sustained during his last match against the British and Irish Lions. Following a controversial cleanout by Lions hooker Dan Sheehan, Lynagh’s third concussion this season raises concerns about his fitness moving forward.

Ben Donaldson, who previously took over from Lynagh during a victory at Accor Stadium, is likely to don the No. 10 jersey in the initial test on August 17 at Ellis Park, though experienced player James O’Connor provides a seasoned alternative. Edmed, who had a brief debut against Ireland last year before being injured, is also looking to make an impact despite limited time on the pitch this season.

Coach Schmidt expressed hope in maintaining a core group while introducing fresh talent to face the formidable South African team on their home soil over consecutive weekends. He acknowledged the toughness of the upcoming tests, while indicating that the team has made progress in the early part of the Test season, with substantial work still ahead.

Jake Gordon’s hamstring injury has led to Nic White’s premature return from retirement, complemented by uncapped Ryan Lonergan as a third halfback option. Aidan Ross, a former All Blacks prop, could also make his debut, and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto is back after standing out in previous matches. Following David Porecki’s unexpected retirement, Josh Nasser has returned to the pool of hookers, while Filipo Daugunu is absent due to personal commitments.

Past performances indicate that the Wallabies ended last year’s Rugby Championship on a low note, but with the continued inclusion of star lock Will Skelton, there’s a glimmer of optimism. Analysts believe the team’s recent successes suggest a potential shift in consistency is needed, especially with challenging fixtures against Argentina and New Zealand following the South African tests.

The Wallabies will face South Africa on August 17 and August 24, with plans to transition into home games against Argentina on September 6 and 13, before concluding with matches against New Zealand at the end of September and early October. The evolving squad dynamics and upcoming fixtures will be critical in determining the Wallabies’ performance in this Rugby Championship season.

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