Wallabies Announce Team for Final Allianz Stadium test, White Set for Farewell
Sydney, Australia – Teh Wallabies have announced their lineup for Saturday’s crucial Test match against Argentina at Allianz Stadium, marking the last sporting event too be held at the venue before upcoming renovations. The team sees the return of veteran prop James Slipper, replacing Tom Robertson, while Angus Bell provides impact from the bench.
In a forward pack looking for redemption, tighthead prop Taniela Tupou will earn his fifth consecutive start. Tupou openly acknowledged his disappointment with early penalties conceded in the previous match against Argentina in Townsville, stating, “Obviously, it wasn’t the start we were looking for… I was quite nervous there because we got lucky at the end.”
The match carries meaningful emotional weight as it’s expected to be the final Test appearance for halfback Nic White, who announced his retirement after the Lions series. Waratahs captain Jake Gordon is poised to take over the No. 9 jersey for the upcoming Bledisloe Cup clash against New Zealand on september 27th.
Further backline adjustments see James O’Connor named as cover on the bench, though his future with the squad remains uncertain as he is slated to join Leicester after the match. Reds hooker Josh Nasser will secure his seventh cap, taking the place of Brandon Paenga-Amosa.
Argentina Responds with Strategic Changes
Across the pitch, Argentina coach Felipe Contepomi has also made key adjustments to his starting side. Notably, vice-captain and influential flanker Pablo Matera will begin the match on the bench, a move seemingly designed to bolster the Pumas’ strength in the second half against a powerful Wallabies forward pack.
This Test promises to be a compelling contest, filled with both strategic maneuvering and emotional farewells, as the Wallabies bid adieu to Allianz Stadium and a celebrated player in Nic White.Key Takeaways:
Slipper Returns: Veteran prop James Slipper back in the starting lineup.
Tupou seeks Redemption: tighthead prop acknowledges early penalties and aims for a stronger performance.
White’s Farewell: Expected final Test for retiring halfback Nic White.
Nasser Earns Cap: Reds hooker Josh Nasser to start.
* Matera on Bench: Argentina makes strategic change with key flanker starting from the bench.[Image of Tane Edmed at Wallabies training – Getty Images]
SEO Keywords: Wallabies, Argentina, Rugby, Allianz Stadium, Nic White, James Slipper, Taniela Tupou, pablo Matera, bledisloe Cup, Rugby Championship, Team Announcement, Sports News, Australia, Rugby Union.
