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Rugby League convert Suaalii to debut for Wallabies against England

Joseph-Aukuso Sualli
Joe Schmidt has named his Wallabies side for their first test of the 2024 Autumn Nations Series, which includes a Test debut for Joseph-Aukuso Sualli for the Wallabies.

The 21-year-old, a former Australian Schoolboys and Under 18s representative, has been selected to start at outside centre, after making a switch from the NRL and joining up with the NSW Waratahs, he is partnering Len Ikitau in the midfield for the opening match against England.

Suaalii is the only change to the starting XV from the Wallabies' last Test in Wellington against New Zealand. The front row remains unchanged with Angus Bell, Matt Faessler, and Taniela Tupou.

A total of 14 players in the matchday 23 will be playing at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham for the first time.

Angus Bell, Matt Faessler and Taniela Tupou are named as the starting front row, with Nick Frost and Jeremy Williams, who are starting together for the fourth consecutive Test, solidifying their positions in the row.

In the back row, 2024 John Eales Medallist Rob Valetini starts at blindside flanker, with Fraser McReight on openside and captain Harry Wilson at the back of the scrum at number 8.

Jake Gordon and Noah Lolesio will

pair up as half-backs for the sixth time this season as the Wallabies embark on their first Grand Slam opportunity since 2016, outside the half-back pair, debutant Joseph-Aukuso Sualii and Len Ikitau will start in the centres.

Dylan Pietsch keeps his place on the left wing after making his starting debut in Wellington, with Andrew Kellaway on the right wing and Tom Wright at fullback.

The experience over 140 cap prop James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa (76 caps) will be available to be called upon, along with hooker Brandon Paenga-Amosa, to make up the replacement front row.

Lukhan Salakaia-Loto provides added experience as a substitute second-rower, while Langi Gleeson brings impact in the loose forwards.

Tate McDermott will be the replacement scrumhalf and versatile back Ben Donaldson will provide cover across multiple positions. Max Jorgensen completes the mat

chday 23 for his first Test in the Northern Hemisphere.

Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt commented, "The team has adjusted well to the travel and had a couple of training sessions here in preparation for what will be a tough challenge on Saturday."

"Playing in front of passionate home crowds in some of the world's most iconic rugby stadiums is an exciting prospect, with many players making their first Spring Tour appearance."

Wallabies team to play England at Allianz Stadium in London on Saturday 9th November at 15:10pm (GMT)

1. Angus Bell (33 Tests) – Hunters Hill Rugby

2. Matt Faessler (12 Tests) – USQ Saints

3. Taniela Tupou (56 Tests) – Brothers Rugby

4. Nick Frost (21 Tests) – Hornsby Lions

5. Jeremy Williams (8 Tests) – Wahroonga Tigers

6. Rob Valetini (48 Tests) – Harlequin Junior Rugby Club

7. Fraser McReight (22 Tests) – Albany Creek Brumbies

8. Harry Wilson (c) (19 Tests) – Gunnedah Red Devils

9. Jake Gordon (27 Tests) – Canterbury Juniors

10. Noah Lolesio (26 Tests) – Tuggeranong Vikings

11. Dylan Pietsch (4 Tests) – Leeton Phantoms

12. Len Ikitau (35 Tests) – Tuggeranong Vikings

13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii* – The Kings School

14. Andrew Kellaway (35 Tests) – Hunters Hill Rugby

15. Tom Wright (33 Tests) – Clovelly Eagles

Substitutes

16. Brandon Paenga-Amosa (16 Tests) – Southern Districts

17. James Slipper (140 Tests)– Bond Pirates

18. Allan Alaalatoa (76 Tests) – West Harbour Juniors

19. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (37 Tests) - Randwick

20. Langi Gleeson (9 Tests) – Harbord Harlequins

21. Tate McDermott (37 Tests) – Flinders Rugby Club

22. Ben Donaldson (13 Tests) – Clovelly Eagles

23. Max Jorgensen (3 Tests) – Balmain Wolves