Donaldson replaces Beale for Western Force vs British Lions in Perth

Ben Donaldson has been released from the Wallabies squad to join the Western Force for their upcoming match against the British & Irish Lions after veteran playmaker Kurtley Beale suffered a hamstring injury. Donaldson, a flyhalf, will replace Beale at fullback and expressed his excitement about playing in front of home fans at Optus Stadium in Perth, viewing it as a great opportunity and challenge. Beale, who recently returned from a ruptured Achilles tendon, was set to face the Lions but will now watch from the sidelines. Donaldson is one of six Force players released by the Wallabies, addressing concerns from the Lions management about the competitiveness of tour matches without Australia's top players. He praised the Force squad's hard work and camaraderie, noting encouragement from Beale and teammates ahead of the match. The Western Force match serves as a key warm-up fixture before Australia's test against Fiji, with high expectations for a strong performance against the Lions.