Joe Schmidt’s surprises continue as ‘retired’ foreign-based star returns and SIX more uncapped players selected in Wallabies squad

Joe Schmidt has once again made several alterations after selecting his wider Wallabies training squad for the Rugby Championship.

The mid-year window allowed the new head coach to assess the talent at his disposal with the aim of finding some individuals that can help Australia put in an improved display in this upcoming tournament.

There is still an element of experimentation for Schmidt, however, who has named a further six uncapped players in the 36.

They include Luke Reimer, Carlo Tizzano, Seru Uru and Hamish Stewart. Reimer and Tizzano have benefited after injuries to Liam Wright and Fraser McReight while Uru comes in with Langi Gleeson also absent.

Youngster Max Jorgensen, who has struggled with injury this season, is back in the group and could make his debut in the Rugby Championship.

Corey Toole is the final rookie selected having featured for Australia’s sevens side during the Olympics.

Marika’s return

At the other end of the experience spectrum, Marika Koroibete is the only foreign-based player in the squad, despite suggesting that the 2023 Rugby World Cup would be his last appearance for the Wallabies.

The return of the ‘retired’ Koroibete means that lock Will Skelton has been snubbed, even though the powerhouse forward has consistently impressed for La Rochelle in both the Top 14 and Champions Cup.

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“There was plenty of discussion among the coaches but we’re hopeful that the squad selected will embrace the challenge of playing South Africa over the next fortnight or so,” Schmidt said.

“We know there’s a lot of hard work to do ahead of those Test matches and we’re looking forward to getting back together as a group on Saturday and rolling up our sleeves.

“The players enjoyed the vocal support we received during the July Tests, and they will be looking to earn continued public support over the coming weeks.”

Of the players to miss out, Charlie Cale and Darby Lancaster, who both made their debuts in July have been cut alongside ex-All Black Alex Hodgman.

Wallabies’ 36-man squad for the Rugby Championship

Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Angus Blyth, Matt Faessler, Nick Frost, Tom Hooper, Isaac Kailea, Josh Nasser, Zane Nonggorr, Billy Pollard, Luke Reimer, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, James Slipper, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Seru Uru, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson

Backs: Filipo Daugunu, Ben Donaldson, Josh Flook, Jake Gordon, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Marika Koroibete, Noah Lolesio, Tom Lynagh, Tate McDermott, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Hamish Stewart, Corey Toole, Nic White, Tom Wright

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