Rugby league convert Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and former Leicester wing Harry Potter have been selected to join Australia’s squad for their autumn tour of the UK and Ireland. The squad, led by coach Joe Schmidt, also includes uncapped player Tane Edmed from New South Wales Waratahs.
In addition to Suaalii and Potter, La Rochelle’s Will Skelton and Japan-based centre Samu Kerevi have been recalled for the four-Test tour. Suaalii, who recently moved from the Sydney Roosters to the Waratahs, is yet to make his debut after representing Samoa in rugby league. Similarly, Potter, born in England and now playing for the Western Force, brings a wealth of experience to the team.
The Wallabies are set to play Tests against England, Wales, Scotland, and Ireland, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of their 1984 Grand Slam tour. Coach Schmidt expressed his excitement about the squad’s regeneration and the opportunity to integrate new players during the upcoming tour.
The squad, consisting of 30 players, will face Bristol and England A next month, with fourteen capped players included. The team is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting series of matches across the UK and Ireland, with fans eagerly anticipating the performance of both seasoned players and fresh talent on the field.
This announcement marks a new chapter for Australian rugby as they prepare to showcase their skills and determination against formidable opponents in the upcoming November Tests. With a mix of experience and youthful energy, the Wallabies are poised to make their mark on the international rugby scene once again.