New Wallabies coach Les Kiss pledged “evolution not revolution” after retaining Harry Wilson as captain and naming just one debutant in his first squad.
Kiss named a 34-man squad on Thursday for back-to-back Tests against Japan, with Reds centre Isaac Henry the only uncapped player included after Len Ikitau was ruled out through injury.
Wilson also retained the captaincy despite speculation that Reds teammate Fraser McReight could take over the role.
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The squad marks the beginning of a new era under Kiss, who succeeded Joe Schmidt after Australia’s emphatic 57-10 Nations Championship victory over Italy ended a six-Test losing streak.
Veteran prop James Slipper was the biggest omission after returning from international retirement to feature during the Nations Championship. The 154-Test scrummager has reportedly been rested, with Isaac Kailea included instead.
Kiss also recalled hooker Josh Nasser, inside centre Hunter Paisami and flyhalf Carter Gordon after the trio missed last weekend’s win over Italy, while lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto earned a reprieve after falling out of favour under Schmidt.
“Selection is always a challenging process, but as coaches we’ve looked to bring together a group based on form, cohesion and how we want to play the game,” said Kiss.
“Spending time with the group over the last few weeks alongside Scott McLeod and Jonny Fisher has been incredibly valuable as we look to hit the ground running.
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“It’s been encouraging to see how tight they are as a group and how hard they work for each other and the gold jersey.
“The challenge now is for everyone to roll up their sleeves and find a new level of consistency.”
Australia will face Japan in Osaka on 8 August before hosting the Brave Blossoms in Townsville a week later.
A new chapter begins 🦘
Les Kiss’ first Wallabies squad. pic.twitter.com/owf8jn0jWq
— Wallabies (@wallabies) July 23, 2026
– AFP
Photo: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images
