Wallabies Name Team for Lone Fiji Warm-Up

Australia's Wallabies will face Fiji in Newcastle in their only warm-up match ahead of a crucial three-Test series against the British & Irish Lions, with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii returning from a fractured jaw to start at outside centre. Suaalii reunites in the midfield with Len Ikitau, and their partnership is a central focus of Australia's attacking plans. Several senior Wallabies, including Rob Valetini, Jake Gordon, and Will Skelton, are out injured but are expected back for the Lions series, while Harry Wilson captains the team for this fixture. Head coach Joe Schmidt aims to build effective combinations quickly as the Wallabies seek improvement following a disappointing 2023 season. Fiji brings a strong mix of European-based and homegrown players, hoping to repeat their 2023 Rugby World Cup success over Australia. Both squads are contending with injuries and rapid preparations for what is expected to be a fiercely competitive Test.