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Wallabies back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on wing for first Bledisloe Cup Test against All Blacks

Australia coach Les Kiss calls up Isaac Henry to start at Eden ParkNew Zealand hit hard by injury before home rugby internationalAustralia coach Les Kiss called up rookie Isaac Henry and retained star back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on the wing in…

Published: Thursday, 8 October 2026 at 2:57 AM
Wallabies back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on wing for first Bledisloe Cup Test against All Blacks
Key Things to Know
  • Wallabies coach Les Kiss has kept Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on the wing to face the All Blacks at Eden Park.
  • Isaac Henry will start at outside center as the only change to Australia's starting lineup following Hunter Paisami's suspension.
  • Len Ikitau recovered from an ankle injury to move into inside center wearing the No 12 jersey.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Australia coach Les Kiss has retained Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on the wing and selected Isaac Henry at outside center for Saturday's Bledisloe Cup opener against New Zealand at Eden Park. Henry replaces the suspended Hunter Paisami in the only starting change from the lineup that defeated South Africa 42-38 in Perth. Len Ikitau shifts to inside center after passing a fitness test.

New Zealand enters the match facing a severe injury crisis, with fly-half Richie Mo'unga and winger Fehi Fineanganofo ruled out on Thursday alongside captain Ardie Savea and several other regulars. In response, All Blacks coach Dave Rennie shifted Damian McKenzie to fly-half and recalled Beauden Barrett to fullback.

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