Wallabies' Rob Valetini ruled out of Bledisloe Cup test against All Blacks

Rob Valetini, a key Wallabies forward and two-time John Eales Medal recipient, has been ruled out of the upcoming Bledisloe Cup test against New Zealand due to a calf injury. His absence is a significant setback for Australia, who have not won at Eden Park since 1986 and are seeking to end New Zealand’s long winning streak there. Pete Samu, who has not played a test since 2023, has been called up as Valetini’s replacement. The Wallabies are also without powerhouse forward Will Skelton, adding to their challenges in the match. Despite these setbacks, Australia leads the Rugby Championship and aims to maintain momentum in the closely contested tournament. The first test is set for September 27 in Auckland, followed by a second test in Perth on October 4, both critical to the Bledisloe Cup series.