Back Row
6. Rob Leatoa
7. Sam Cane (C)
8. Langi Gleeson
Despite being a mainstay in the Waratahs back-row, Langi Gleeson suffered a calf injury which ruled him out of the early Wallabies camp back in March. He has been unable to re-claim his spot from the Autumn series just yet, with Rob Valentini preferred at eight. Gleeson could well do damage in this invitational squad, along with his Wallabies teammate on the flank.
We’ve selected Rob Leatoa to occupy the blindside, and All Blacks captain Sam Cane to take charge from the seven jersey. Cane will also be the Australia-New Zealand matchday captain, and will be one of the biggest names on the starting xv for the combined country. Rob Leatoa was a frequent feature in the closing stages of the Dave Rennie era, yet we predict to see him take a back seat for the 2025 tour.
Replacements
The replacement run down with All Blacks prop Ofa Tu’ungafasi, and hooker Codie Taylor adding front row experience from the substitutes bench. Wallabies and Waratahs young gun Angus Bell will bring a burst of energy onto the pitch at tight-head prop, before New Zealand supply the replacement loose forwards.
Versatile Chiefs forward Tupou Va’ai and Blues powerhouse Dalton Papali’i reinforce the ranks, before an uncapped Crusader makes an appearance at replacement scrum-half. Exciting young prospect Noah Hotham gets the nod to run on at halfback, in what could be a baptism of fire against international opposition.
Australia ‘A’ talent Jock Campbell adds flexibility across the back-three, as the Queensland Reds man has proven strength on both wings and also at fullback. The last name on this team-sheet is the hotly anticipated cross-code star Joseph Sau’ali’i.
In 2025, the Rugby League playmaker will be making the swap over from the Sydney Roosters to join the New South Wales Waratahs. Sau’ali’i could well utilise this exhibition match to shake any last ditch ‘union nerves’ before a Wallabies test match debut against the Lions.
16. Ofa Tu’ungafasi
17. Angus Bell
18. Codie Taylor
19. Tupou Va’ai
20. Dalton Papali’i
21. Noah Hotham
22. Jock Campbell
23. Joseph Sau’ali’i