Wallabies: Paisami and Gordon lead changes against Japan due to Ikitau’s absence

Paisami Seeks to Establish Himself in the Wallabies Against Japan

The Wallabies center, Hunter Paisami, could be one of the key players looking to cement his place in the starting team, as coach Joe Schmidt prepares several changes for the test against Japan in Tokyo this Saturday. Paisami is set to replace John Eales Medal winner Len Ikitau at number 12. Ikitau will begin his nine-month stint with English club Exeter, following the 38-0 victory over Harlequins. The absence of Ikitau and Will Skelton, along with the retirement of James Slipper, will result in at least four changes in the Australian team that will face the Brave Blossoms. This situation represents a golden opportunity for Paisami, who has only been a starter once this season, in the defeat against Argentina in Sydney.

We are eager, we have Hamish (Stewart) and Filipo Daugunu who can cover that number 12 position. It’s important that we push each other to improve and, hopefully, get more playing time in that position.

Hunter Paisami

Schmidt could also consider Hamish Stewart in the center, but Stewart’s performance in Australia A’s victory over Japan XV suggests that Paisami could be the chosen one.

Stewart could be on the bench as a substitute in midfield or as a fly-half, although Schmidt indicated that Carter Gordon could get a chance after his return.

There’s a good chance Carter will play against Japan. If we don’t invest now, we won’t see benefits in two years, when the home World Cup is a great opportunity to show what we can do in Australia.

Joe Schmidt

While Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii was included in the starting team against England, Schmidt has Tane Edmed available as a fly-half. Rob Valetini is also likely to start, while Carlo Tizzano could get a chance at the number 7 position. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Jeremy Williams could replace Skelton, and the return of Andrew Kellaway gives Schmidt more versatility in the back three. Angus Bell, could be a starter at the number 1 position. Schmidt will confirm his team on Thursday afternoon for a match that is of great importance to the Australian rugby community. This match also represents a challenge, as Australia has much to lose and nothing to gain in terms of world ranking, something crucial for the 2027 World Cup draw in Sydney in December.