Wallabies coach Les Kiss has elevated 22-year-old five-eighth Harry McLaughlin-Phillips for the upcoming clash against South Africa in Perth, according to team announcements.
Kiss Defends Omission of Veterans Foley and O’Connor
Veteran flyhalves Bernard Foley and James O’Connor have been overlooked for the upcoming clash against South Africa, with coach Les Kiss stating they must first prove their fitness and form on the pitch before receiving selection consideration. “We know experience stands for a lot, without a doubt,” Kiss said, as reported by team sources. “I think the experience that we do have in them, we’d like to see them play some games, and they’ll get plenty of opportunity.”
McLaughlin-Phillips Earns No. 10 Nod After Gordon Injury
The selection door swung open for Western Force’s Harry McLaughlin-Phillips following a broken leg suffered by Carter Gordon. Kiss selected the uncapped 22-year-old over fit-again Tom Lynagh and Japan-based Noah Lolesio. McLaughlin-Phillips recently faced Lynagh in Super Rugby AU, helping the Force secure a 29-28 victory after Lynagh was substituted at half-time. Kiss noted that McLaughlin-Phillips stands out as the most battle-hardened option among available contenders, having spent four years at the Queensland Reds, including three seasons under Kiss’s coaching.
Squad Changes Bring Experience Back to the Fold
Alongside McLaughlin-Phillips, the Wallabies made two other adjustments following their historic series victory in Argentina. Prop Zane Nonggorr returns after recovering from a calf injury, replacing Massimo de Lutiis. Meanwhile, outside back Jordan Petaia enters the squad in place of Filipo Daugunu. Petaia, age 26, recently returned to rugby with the Urayasu D-Rocks in Japan after a brief stint pursuing American football. Ben Donaldson and Declan Meredith retained their places in the squad, with Donaldson providing the most senior guidance at No. 10 with 25 caps.
Did You Know?
Jordan Petaia has played in two Rugby World Cups and could make his first appearance for the Wallabies in three years during the upcoming fixtures against the Springboks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were James O’Connor and Bernard Foley left out of the Wallabies squad?
Coach Les Kiss stated that while both veterans possess immense experience, they must first play competitive matches in Super Rugby following their recent return signings before being considered for selection.
Who replaced the injured Carter Gordon at flyhalf?
Uncapped 22-year-old Harry McLaughlin-Phillips from the Western Force was selected to join the squad for the upcoming Test against South Africa in Perth.
What other changes were made to the Wallabies squad?
Zane Nonggorr returned from a calf injury to replace Massimo de Lutiis, and Jordan Petaia replaced Filipo Daugunu following a stint playing rugby in Japan.
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