Valetini Returns as Wallabies Face Lions in Melbourne
Homecoming for Star Flanker in 700th Test Celebration
Melbourne-born powerhouse **Rob Valetini** is set to ignite the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday night, featuring in the Wallabies’ 700th Test match against the British & Irish Lions. This marks a significant homecoming for the back-to-back John Eales Medallist.
Forward Pack Bolstered for Lions Clash
Coach **Joe Schmidt** has made three changes to the starting forward unit. **Valetini** returns at blindside flanker, while **Will Skelton** and hooker **David Porecki** earn their first Test starts against the renowned Lions. This experienced front row will consist of **James Slipper**, **Porecki**, and **Allan Alaalatoa**.
**Skelton** will partner with **Nick Frost** in the second row. The remainder of the backline remains unchanged from the previous encounter, with **Jake Gordon** and **Tom Lynagh** continuing their halves combination.
Potter and Suaalii Feature in Star-Studded Backline
The midfield sees **Len Ikitau** and the exciting young talent **Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii** build on their burgeoning partnership. Local product **Harry Potter** will make his hometown Test debut on the left wing, with **Max Jorgensen** on the right edge and **Tom Wright** at fullback.
Replacements include **Billy Pollard**, **Angus Bell**, and **Tom Robertson** in the front row. **Jeremy Williams** is named as the reserve lock, while **Langi Gleeson** and **Carlo Tizzano** provide forward cover. **Tate McDermott** will act as the substitute scrumhalf, and **Ben Donaldson** is listed at number 23, showcasing his versatility.
“The squad has recovered well after a very physical first test and the week’s preparation here in Melbourne has allowed us a bit more time together. We took some confidence from the second half last week, but we know we’ll need to improve further against a Lions team that will bring plenty of fire to the contest on Saturday night.”
—Joe Schmidt, Wallabies Coach
Wallabies Squad: Melbourne Cricket Ground
1. **James Slipper** (145 Tests)
2. **David Porecki** (20 Tests)
3. **Allan Alaalatoa** (82 Tests)
4. **Nick Frost** (27 Tests)
5. **Will Skelton** (32 Tests)
6. **Rob Valetini** (52 Tests)
7. **Fraser McReight** (27 Tests)
8. **Harry Wilson** (c) (24 Tests)
9. **Jake Gordon** (30 Tests)
10. **Tom Lynagh** (4 Tests)
11. **Harry Potter** (4 Tests)
12. **Len Ikitau** (41 Tests)
13. **Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii** (6 Tests)
14. **Max Jorgensen** (9 Tests)
15. **Tom Wright** (39 Tests)
Replacements
16. **Billy Pollard** (8 Tests)
17. **Angus Bell** (38 Tests)
18. **Tom Robertson** (32 Tests)
19. **Jeremy Williams** (12 Tests)
20. **Langi Gleeson** (15 Tests)
21. **Carlo Tizzano** (7 Tests)
22. **Tate McDermott** (43 Tests)
23. **Ben Donaldson** (18 Tests)
The Wallabies are looking to bounce back after their opening loss to the Lions. In their previous encounter, the Wallabies lost 27-19 to the Lions at Suncorp Stadium. The British & Irish Lions have had a mixed tour so far, with victories over the Western Force (54-7), Queensland Reds (52-12), New South Wales Waratahs (21-10), ACT Brumbies (36-24), and an AUNZ Invitational XV (48-0), alongside a close win against a First Nations & Pasifika XV (24-19). Rugby Australia reports that attendances for Lions tours often exceed 30,000 per match, highlighting the significant fan engagement.Rugby.com.au
The series concludes with another fixture against the British & Irish Lions at Accor Stadium in Sydney on Saturday, August 2.
