Wallabies superstars return, but Kiss takes gamble on key position
Star centres Len Ikitau and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii have been immediately recalled for the Wallabies′ upcoming two-Test tour of Argentina, but new coach Les Kiss has taken a punt by naming just one specialist fullback for the trip to South America.
After Jock Campbell went unused during the recent 2-0 series win over Japan, Kiss has made the decision to leave the classy fullback out of his 34-man squad for the trip to Argentina, where the Wallabies meet Los Pumas on Sunday August 30 AEDT at Estadio 23 de Agosto, San Salvador de Jujuy.
Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is returning to the Wallabies squad. Getty Images
The decision means that Tom Wright is the only specialist fullback in the squad.
Kiss does have a few options who can wear the No.15 jersey.
Versatile playmaker Ben Donaldson slotted in at fullback off the bench in Osaka during the Wallabies’ 35-32 win earlier this month.
Max Jorgensen has also played fullback for the Wallabies while Suaalii last featured in the position for the Waratahs early last year.
After last Saturday’s 57-17 demolition of Japan in Townsville made it three straight wins for the first time in two years, the mini tour is a big one for the Wallabies as they look to take the streak of victories to four for the first time since Dave Rennie was in charge in 2021.
But despite Argentina having a slow start to 2026, having lost to the Springboks, England and Scotland at home, Felipe Contepomi’s men have regularly troubled the Wallabies.
Last September the Wallabies were pipped in Sydney and snuck home a week earlier in Townsville. The Wallabies also split the spoils in 2025, with the Wallabies winning one of two Tests in Argentina.
“As coaches we’ve looked to maintain consistency in selection with the bulk of this squad having laid a solid foundation over the past few weeks, through their hard work and connection on and off the field,” Kiss said in a statement.“Touring Argentina presents another tough challenge for us as a new group, and it’s one that we know will require us to go to another level as we continue to look to build and develop our game.”
Elsewhere, Kiss has rewarded those who recently starred, with Isaac Henry once again included after starring last weekend on his starting debut. Japan-bound centre Hunter Paisami also retains his place. However, there’s no room for Josh Flook.
Whether either Paisami or Henry retain their spot on match day remains to be seen, with Ikitau and Suaalii back in the mix.
Declan Meredith is the third playmaker alongside Donaldson and Carter Gordon, while halfback Kalani Thomas will be out to win a cap after being overlooked for the opening five Tests of the year with Ryan Lonergan and Tate McDermott preferred.
Miles Amatosero (right) is serving a ban. Getty Images
The forward pack remains much the same as the one rolled out against Japan, with Miles Amatosero not included after being suspended for a dangerous clean out in Osaka.
Wallabies squad for Argentina games
Forwards (19)Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Charlie Cale Josh Canham Massimo de Lutiis, Tom Hooper, Isaac Kailea, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Billy Pollard, Aidan Ross, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Lachlan Shaw, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson (c)Backs (15)Filipo Daugunu, Ben Donaldson, Carter Gordon, Isaac Henry, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Ryan Lonergan, Tate McDermott, Declan Meredith, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Joseph Aukuso-Suaali, Kalani Thomas, Tom WrightUnavailable for selectionMiles AmatoseroEthan DobbinsLangi GleesonJake GordonZac LomaxTom LynaghZane NonggorrHenry RobertsonTom RobertsonBlake SchouppWill Skelton
Argentina v Wallabies fixtures
Game one: 5am AEST Sunday August 30 at Estadio 23 de Agosto, San Salvador de Jujuy
Game two: 5am AEST Sunday September 6 at Estádio Malvinas Argentinas, Mendoza
