FNP XV: The Anti-Lions Plan the Wallabies Must Imitate in Melbourne

The Wallabies could find inspiration in the spirit of their First Nations-Pasifika (FNP) colleagues if they seek a model to face the British and Irish Lions in the second Test in Melbourne. The FNP team offered the most outstanding performance by an Australian team so far on the tour.

You need to go for them, head-on.

Kurtley Beale

The FNP captain, Kurtley Beale, commented after the 24-19 defeat against the visitors. He acknowledged that there were moments when the team took the initiative, which generated opportunities. He highlighted the importance of physicality in rugby, something the Wallabies missed in the first Test. The FNP team, led by Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Charlie Gamble and Taniela Tupou, overcame a 14-0 deficit, pushing the Lions until the last moment at Marvel Stadium.

Salakaia-Loto, Key Figure

Salakaia-Loto, with two impressive performances against the Lions, proved his worth. His 10 runs for 18 meters were only surpassed by Lions player Josh van der Flier, and his 11 tackles were second on the FNP team, after Gamble. FNP coach Toutai Kefu praised Salakaia-Loto, highlighting his mentality and leadership. Kefu suggested that Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt should consider calling up Salakaia-Loto, given his outstanding performance in the last two matches. Tupou also had a good performance, combining dominance in the set play with strong advances. Kefu described his set play as world-class and suggested that, if he stays in shape, he could have a path back to the Wallabies team. Gamble was recognized as the man of the match, demonstrating his impact by disrupting the Lions’ game and making 18 perfect tackles.

Caption: Lions captain Owen Farrell grapples with First Nations-Pasifika players Charlie Gamble and Tuiana Taii Tualima during the tour match in Melbourne, July 22, 2025Kefu praised Gamble for his defensive leadership, stating that he led the way for the team all week.

Caption: Lions center Garry Ringrose is tackled by the First Nations-Pasifika defense during the tour match in Melbourne, July 22, 2025

Although Gamble’s path to the Wallabies is blocked, his performances against the Lions have put him in consideration in case of injuries in the team. Beale urged Rugby Australia administrators to consider more matches for the FNP team in the future, highlighting the importance of this concept and its potential for rugby.