Wallabies: Paisami and Gordon lead changes vs Japan, Schmidt bets on the future

Paisami Seeks to Consolidate in the Wallabies against Japan

Wallabies center Hunter Paisami could be one of the players looking to cement their place in the Australian starting team, as coach Joe Schmidt prepares several changes for the test against Japan in Tokyo on Saturday. Paisami is in a position to replace John Eales Medal winner Len Ikitau at number 12. Ikitau will begin a nine-month period with English club Exeter, following their 38-0 victory over Harlequins. The absence of Ikitau, along with that of Will Skelton and the retirement of James Slipper, means 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 start this season was in the defeat against Argentina in Sydney.

We are eager, we have Hamish (Stewart) and Filipo Daugunu who can also cover that number 12 position. So it’s for us to push each other, compete, and that way we can improve and, hopefully, have more playing time in that position.

Hunter Paisami

Schmidt could also consider Hamish Stewart in the center, but the fact that the Western Force midfielder was part of Australia A’s 71-7 victory over Japan XV suggests that Paisami could be the chosen one.

Stewart could offer bench cover at fullback and in the centres. Schmidt indicated last week that Carter Gordon, who returns to the team, could get an immediate opportunity after completing his switch from the Gold Coast Titans. Rob Valetini looks set to be a certain starter after recovering from injury from the bench, and could fill the number 6 position vacated by Hooper. Fraser McReight, for his part, could give Carlo Tizzano a chance at the number 7 position. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Jeremy Williams are likely options to replace Skelton, while Andrew Kellaway’s return from injury gives Schmidt more versatility in his three-quarter line. Angus Bell, who has been used as a substitute this season, could get his chance at the number 1 position. Schmidt will confirm his team on Thursday afternoon for a match that has special significance for the Australian rugby community. This match is crucial for Australia, as they have a lot to lose and nothing to gain from the perspective of world ranking, which is increasingly important in the lead-up to the 2027 World Cup draw in Sydney in December.