Aidan Ross, the versatile Reds prop, will be making his entrance as a loosehead prop, marking his fourth Test appearance in the distinguished gold jersey. His previous outing against the Brave Blossoms in Tokyo last year sets a precedent for his capabilities on the field. Ross joins forces with Allan Alaalatoa, a constant figure at tighthead, and Josh Nasser, who makes a return as the starting hooker.
The team's strategic reinforcement is evident with the front-row reserves, comprising the robust trio of Billy Pollard, Angus Bell, and Taniela Tupou, ready to escalate the game's intensity from the sidelines.
Second-row sees new dynamics with Miles Amatosero, donning the gold jersey for his second cap, paired with Josh Canham. Western Force's Jeremy Williams will be stepping in as the lock replacement. The selected back-rowers, Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight, and captain Harry Wilson, are tasked with a critical role to temper Japan's aggressive play.
Half-back positions are held by Ryan Lonergan and Declan Meredith, solidifying their partnership in their third consecutive Test together. Ben Donaldson is prepped for dual roles, covering fly-half and potentially stepping in as full-back.
Dynamic midfield engagement will see Hunter Paisami at inside centre alongside Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, with Isaac Henry, set to earn his spot as Wallaby number 999, anticipated to join in the later stages of the match.
The outer back positions are filled with Harry Potter, young Max Jorgensen, and Brumbies' Tom Wright, establishing a blend of experience and youthful zest essential for the game's wide-ranging demands.
"Every single player in the squad has pushed hard over the last fortnight to get us to this point, making selecting the matchday 23 a real challenge for the coaches. The players selected now have the privilege and responsibility that comes with wearing the gold jersey and we know they’ll do everything they can to earn the support of all Australians when they take to the field in Osaka on Saturday night."
Team lineup for Australia against Japan:
- 1 Aidan Ross
- 2 Josh Nasser
- 3 Allan Alaalatoa
- 4 Josh Canham
- 5 Miles Amatosero
- 6 Rob Valetini
- 7 Fraser McReight
- 8 Harry Wilson (c)
- 9 Ryan Lonergan
- 10 Declan Meredith
- 11 Harry Potter
- 12 Hunter Paisami
- 13 Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii
- 14 Max Jorgensen
- 15 Tom Wright
- 16 Billy Pollard
- 17 Angus Bell
- 18 Taniela Tupou
- 19 Jeremy Williams
- 20 Charlie Cale
- 21 Tate McDermott
- 22 Ben Donaldson
- 23 Isaac Henry
The match is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, 8 August, 2026 at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka. The listed referees assisting in this encounter include Eoghan Cross (IRFU), with Paul Williams (NZR) and Morgan White (HKCR) as assistant referees, while Richard Kelly (NZR) serves as TMO, and Matt Rodden (HKCR) as FPRO.
This setup not only reflects the robust nature of Australia's rugby prowess but also the strategic depth added by Les Kiss, promising an intense and engaging showdown in Osaka. As the Wallabies gear up, all eyes will be on how these strategic decisions unfold on the field.
