The Wallabies center, Hunter Paisami, could be one of the key players looking to secure a regular starting position, as coach Joe Schmidt prepares several changes for the individual test against Japan in Tokyo on Saturday. Paisami is set to replace John Eales Medal winner Len Ikitau at number 12, after the talented midfielder began his nine-month stint with English club Exeter, in the Chiefs’ 38-0 victory over Harlequins on Sunday. The absence of Ikitau and Will Skelton, as well as the retirement of James Slipper, mean that there will be at least four changes in the starting XV of Australia that will face the Brave Blossoms. This situation represents an opportunity for Paisami to prove his worth, as his only other start this season was in the close defeat against Argentina in Sydney.
Schmidt could also consider Hamish Stewart at inside centre, but the fact that the Western Force midfielder was part of Australia A’s resounding 71-7 victory over Japan XV suggests that Paisami could be the chosen one.We are eager, obviously, there are some of us here, we have Hamish (Stewart), Filipo Daugunu also who can cover that number 12 jersey.
Hunter Paisami
Carter, being number 10 on the team, there’s a good chance he might participate (against Japan).
Joe SchmidtWhile Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii was included directly in the starting team of the Wallabies against England after his move from rugby league last year, Schmidt has Tane Edmed available as fly-half, and the Brumbies’ playmaker has already enjoyed two starts in the Rugby Championship. In other places, Rob Valetini appears to be a sure starter after returning from injury off the bench, the Brumbies’ back row seemingly will slot straight into the number 6 jersey vacated by Hooper, while Fraser McReight’s intense workload means Carlo Tizzano could finally get a chance in the number 7 jersey. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Jeremy Williams appear to be the replacement options for Skelton, while Andrew Kellaway’s return from injury gives Schmidt more versatility in his three-quarter contingent. Angus Bell, who has been used primarily as a substitute this season behind Slipper, could finally get his chance in the number 1 jersey, after the Waratahs’ prop, who will take a period with Ulster after the Wallabies’ spring tour, completely missed the defeat against the All Blacks in Perth. Schmidt will confirm his team on Thursday afternoon for a match that, while the Wallabies themselves might not agree with Eddie Jones’ revenge narrative, certainly has extra significance for the wider Australian rugby community. But it’s also a dangerous match, in a way, with Australia having everything to lose and nothing to gain from a world ranking perspective, which is increasingly important in the countdown to the 2027 World Cup draw in Sydney in December.
