Wallabies bolster forward pack for 2nd Test vs Lions; Valetini and Skelton start

The Wallabies present a renewed strength for the second test against the British and Irish Lions in Melbourne, with Rob Valetini and Will Skelton integrated into the starting team for Saturday’s clash at the MCG. Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt revealed his lineup for the match on Thursday afternoon, with the return of Valetini, two-time John Eales Medal winner, and Skelton, captain of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, as notable additions. The absence of the Brumbies’ third line was felt in last week’s 27-19 defeat in Brisbane, where Australia only managed 79 meters in the first half. Valetini’s return should significantly improve the Wallabies’ game, setting the stage for a back line that remains unchanged. Skelton, for his part, had not played with the Wallabies since the match against Scotland in Edinburgh last year. His imposing presence will strengthen the Wallabies’ maul and add another key option to carry the ball, along with Valetini. This experienced duo is joined in the front by Waratahs hooker Dave Porecki, who replaces Matt Faessler in the front row.

Some of those decisions were made more difficult by what the bench did last week.
Joe Schmidt

Schmidt also commented that Tom Hooper was unlucky to lose his place, but Will’s experience allows for a different approach. In addition, he highlighted the experience that Valetini brings, which can increase the confidence of other players. In other news, Schmidt chose to keep Jake Gordon as scrum-half instead of Tate McDermott, who would partner with Tom Lynagh.

Rob Valetini refuerza el equipo titular de los Wallabies para el segundo test contra los Lions en Melbourne este fin de semana

The backs line remains unchanged, with Len Ikitau and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in the centers for the fifth time. Schmidt has opted for a 6-2 split on the bench in Melbourne, with Jeremy Williams and Langi Gleeson. Nick Champion de Crespigny is out of the team due to Valetini’s return.

When asked if his team should draw inspiration from the First Nations-Pasifika XV, Schmidt responded that the Wallabies didn’t want to be defensive last week. He warned about the risk of conceding too many breaks, as the FNP team did, highlighting the need for balance between aggression and connection in the game.

The Lions prepare for their second match in five days, after their 24-19 victory over the First Nations-Pasifika XV on Tuesday night. The Lions coach, Andy Farrell, was forced to make two changes, with Ollie Chessum and Bundee Aki replacing Joe McCarthy and Sione Tuipulotu respectively, while Andrew Porter starts in place of Ellis Genge in the front row. Tourists will try to win the second test in Melbourne, something they have not achieved in their last two tours of Australia. It will be the first time the team plays at the MCG, as the second test was played at Marvel Stadium in 2001 and 2013.