Rob Valetini has been dropped to the bench for the Wallabies’ clash with England at Twickenham, while Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii returns on the wing in a reshaped Australia side.
Les Kiss has moved Jeremy Williams into the back row at No.6, allowing Josh Canham to return to the starting second row alongside Lukhan Salakaia-Loto. Valetini, a two-time John Eales medallist, has started every Test for Australia this year.
The 71-cap forward has started 63 of his Tests, although he was previously used as a replacement in two matches during last year’s spring tour because of concerns over his workload.
Taniela Tupou also returns among the replacements, with Kiss naming a heavyweight bench that includes Valetini, Tate McDermott and Ben Donaldson. Tupou’s inclusion is expected to provide Australia with added power in the second half.
Len Ikitau comes back into the midfield after missing the Sydney Bledisloe match because of concussion. He will wear No.12, with Isaac Henry moving to outside centre and Harry Potter making way for Suaalii on the wing.
Wallabies team to face England
Angus Bell returns at loosehead prop and Billy Pollard replaces Josh Nasser at hooker in the other changes to the starting pack. Declan Meredith retains the No.10 shirt, while Harry Wilson continues as captain.
The Wallabies will start with Bell, Pollard, Allan Alaalatoa, Canham, Salakaia-Loto, Williams, Fraser McReight, Wilson, Ryan Lonergan, Meredith, Suaalii, Ikitau, Henry, Max Jorgensen and Tom Wright.
The replacements are Nasser, Isaac Kailea, Tupou, Valetini, Carlo Tizzano, McDermott, Donaldson and Filipo Daugunu. The match is scheduled for Monday at 2.10am Australian Eastern Daylight Time.
