Jock Campbell will start at fullback for the Wallabies in their Nations Championship opener against Ireland at a sold-out Sydney Football Stadium. The Queensland Reds player earned the number 15 jersey over Max Jorgensen and Tom Wright following his selection in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific team of the year, according to AAP.
Why did Jock Campbell earn the Wallabies fullback role?
Campbell’s selection marks a return to international rugby after 1,316 days. His last Test appearance occurred during Australia’s victory over Wales in Cardiff on the 2022 spring tour of Europe.
The decision to name Campbell at number 15 follows a successful Super Rugby Pacific season with the Queensland Reds. While the selection of the fullback was unexpected by some, his inclusion follows his recognition in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific team of the year. He will occupy the back three alongside wingers Max Jorgensen and Dylan Pietsch.
Who are the new starters in the Wallabies lineup?
Several players will earn their first starts for the Wallabies during the match against Ireland. Reds lock Josh Canham has been named for his first Test start, where he will partner Western Force captain Jeremy Williams in the second row.
In the halves, ACT Brumbies scrum half Ryan Lonergan has earned his first run-on for the national side. Lonergan will partner Carter Gordon in the halves to manage the game’s tempo.
The front row features the return of Angus Bell. Bell returns to the squad following a sabbatical in Belfast and will start at loosehead prop. He joins hooker Josh Nasser and veteran Allan Alaalatoa to complete the front row.
Comparison of Back Three Options
The selection process for the number 15 jersey involved three primary candidates. While Jorgensen and Wright are established names in the squad, Campbell’s recent form in Super Rugby Pacific secured him the starting position for the opening Test.
- Jock Campbell: Selected as starter; 2026 Super Rugby Pacific Team of the Year.
- Max Jorgensen: Selected as winger.
- Tom Wright: Named as a reserve.
How is the Wallabies back row structured?
The Wallabies will utilize a familiar back-row combination to begin the 2026 Test campaign. According to squad announcements, the unit consists of:
- Rob Valetini: Blindside flanker and two-time John Eales medallist.
- Fraser McReight: Openside flanker and Reds captain.
- Harry Wilson: Number eight and team captain.
What is the full Wallabies squad for the Ireland Test?
The following players have been named for the Nations Championship opener:
Starting XV: Angus Bell, Josh Nasser, Allan Alaalatoa, Jeremy Williams, Josh Canham, Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson (C), Ryan Lonergan, Carter Gordon, Dylan Pietsch, Len Ikitau, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Max Jorgensen, Jock Campbell.
Reserves: Brandon Paenga-Amosa, James Slipper, Taniela Tupou, Lachlan Shaw, Tom Hooper, Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson, Tom Wright.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Wallabies captain for the Ireland match?
Harry Wilson will captain the Wallabies at number eight.
Where is the Wallabies vs Ireland match being played?
The match will take place at the Sydney Football Stadium.
Is Jock Campbell a new player to the Wallabies?
No, Campbell last played a Test match in 2022 during the spring tour of Europe.
What do you think of the Wallabies’ selection for the Ireland Test? Will Campbell’s return stabilize the back three? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more rugby updates.