O’Connor, Skelton Return for Wallabies Lions Series

Veteran fly-half James O’Connor has been recalled to the Wallabies squad for the upcoming three-Test series against the British & Irish Lions after Noah Lolesio was sidelined by a neck injury. O’Connor, who is soon to join Leicester Tigers and last played Test rugby in 2022, returns after a strong season with the Crusaders and is one of just three Wallabies to feature in two Lions series. He is expected to provide leadership to a young group of playmakers, including Tom Lynagh and Ben Donaldson. James Slipper, Australia's most-capped player, is also in the squad, while Will Skelton and Rob Valetini return from injury. Uncapped players Corey Toole and Nick Champion de Crespigny have been included as well. Head coach Joe Schmidt has yet to name a captain due to injury concerns for recent team leaders, as the Wallabies prepare for the series opener on July 19 in Brisbane.