Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has sprung a surprise by handing Tom Lynagh the No 10 jersey ahead of veteran James O’Connor for Saturday’s Rugby Championship showdown with Argentina in Townsville.
O’Connor started both Tests in South Africa but struggled off the kicking tee in Cape Town, and has now been relegated to the bench as Schmidt backs 22-year-old Lynagh to steer the Wallabies’ attack.
“Los Pumas are a combative and skilled side, and they will be confident after their recent performances,” Schmidt said. “We know we’re going to need to be at our very best on Saturday.”
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In other changes, Andrew Kellaway replaces the injured Tom Wright at fullback, while skipper Harry Wilson returns from a knee niggle at No 8. His comeback shifts Rob Valetini to blindside flank, with Fraser McReight continuing on the openside.
With Will Skelton unavailable after returning to France, Tom Hooper joins Nick Frost in the second row.
WALLABIES – 15 Andrew Kellaway, 14 Max Jorgensen, 13 Joseph Suaalii, 12 Len Ikitau, 11 Corey Toole, 10 Tom Lynagh, 9 Nic White, 8 Harry Wilson (c), 7 Fraser McReight, 6 Rob Valetini, 5 Tom Hooper, 4 Nick Frost, 3 Taniela Tupou, 2 Billy Pollard, 1 Tom Robertson
Bench: 16 Brandon Paenga-Amosa, 17 Angus Bell, 18 Zane Nonggorr, 19 Jeremy Williams, 20 Carlo Tizzano, 21 Tate McDermott, 22 James O’Connor, 23 Filipo Daugunu.
Photo: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile via Getty Images
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