Australia and Wales are poised for a showdown in the opening Test of the summer internationals in Sydney, with both teams eager to secure victory. Warren Gatland’s Wales is aiming to secure their first win on Wallabies soil in over fifty years, while coach Joe Schmidt has introduced six new caps to the Australian team.
The Welsh team has caused a stir with their recent lineup, which includes Ben Thomas in the outside-half position and Josh Hathaway making his debut on the wing. Additionally, the experienced Liam Williams will assume the full-back role, while Christ Tshiunza and Dafydd James form a formidable partnership in the second row.
On the other hand, the Wallabies will present a new-look team with Joe Schmidt’s selection of six Test debutants, including newly appointed skipper, blindside flanker Liam Wright. The squad will also feature debutants Jeremy Williams and Josh Flook, injecting fresh talent into the Australian lineup.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 10:55 am UK time and will be exclusively broadcasted on Sky Sports, with no terrestrial television coverage. Nonetheless, live updates will be available for fans to stay updated.
Wales Starting Lineup:
Liam Williams; Josh Hathaway, Owen Watkin, Mason Grady, Rio Dyer; Ben Thomas, Ellis Bevan; Gareth Thomas, Dewi Lake, Archie Griffin, Christ Tshiunza, Dafydd Jenkins, Taine Plumtree, Tommy Reffell, Aaron Wainwright.
Replacements:
Evan Lloyd, Kemsley Mathias, Harri O’Connor, Cory Hill, James Botham, Kieran Hardy, Sam Costelow, Nick Tompkins.
Australia Starting Lineup:
Tom Wright, Andrew Kellaway, Josh Flook, Hunter Paisami, Filipo Daugunu, Noah Lolesio, Jake Gordon, Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight, Liam Wright (c), Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Jeremy Williams, Taniela Tupou, Matt Faessler, James Slipper
Replacements:
Billy Pollard, Isaac Kailea, Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Blyth, Charlie Cale, Tate McDermott, Tom Lynagh, Dylan Pietsch
The match is expected to be an intense clash between these two rugby powerhouses as Australia and Wales vie for dominance on the field. Stay tuned for what promises to be a captivating encounter between these formidable teams.