Gordon returns as De Lutiis poised to become Wallaby 1000

August 13, 2026
193
Ultimate Rugby

Carter Gordon will return at flyhalf for the Wallabies in their Flight Centre Series Test against Japan in Townsville on Saturday afternoon.

It will be the 25-year-old’s first appearance since the Test against Ireland in Sydney in July, fully recovering from a calf injury to partner Ryan Lonergan in the halves.

It’s one of a number of changes to the side from last Saturday’s Test in Osaka, where temperatures exceeded 35 degrees celsius throughout the week.

There’s a new look second row with Queensland’s Lukhan Salakaia-Loto named for his first Test this season, partnering Lachlan Shaw who earns his third cap, and first start in Wallaby gold.

The dynamic Charlie Cale has been selected for his first start at blindside flanker, while Carlo Tizzano will wear the number seven jersey, with captain Harry Wilson anchoring the scrum at no. 8.

Experienced props Taniela Tupou and Angus Bell return to the XV, combining with Queensland’s Josh Nasser in the run on front row. Bell returning to Queensland Country Bank Stadium for the first time since his 84th minute match winner against Argentina last year.

There is just one further change to the starting backline with last week’s debutant Isaac Henry selected for his first Test start at outside centre, forming a familiar midfield partnership with Reds teammate Hunter Paisami who will again wear the number 12 jersey.

The back three remains consistent for a third consecutive Test, with Harry Potter and Max Jorgensen named on the wings and Tom Wright at fullback for his 48th appearance for this country.

Gold Coast junior Massimo De Lutiis has been named on the bench for his potential Test debut where he would become Wallaby 1000. He’s joined by Brandon Paenga-Amosa and Aidan Ross in the replacement front row.

Western Force skipper Jeremy Williams will again provide his experience as the replacement lock, as will Fraser McReight who is the remaining forward cover.

Tate McDermott will provide spark and energy as the substitute scrumhalf, with Ben Donaldson and versatile Filipo Daugunu finalising the matchday 23.

Wallabies Head Coach Les Kiss said: “The coaches have looked to find some balance in the selection after what was a physically taxing Test week in the heat in Japan.

“The whole group has worked hard this week and we know where we need to improve. This Saturday in Townsville gives us an opportunity to grow and strengthen our game on home soil in front of our supporters.”

Wallabies team to play Japan at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville on Saturday August 15 at 3:00pm AEST

1. Angus Bell (54 Tests) - #940; Hunters Hill Rugby Club

2. Josh Nasser (14 Tests) - #979; Easts Tigers

3. Taniela Tupou (71 Tests) - #917; Brothers Rugby

4. Lachlan Shaw (2 Tests) - #996; University of Queensland

5. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (45 Tests); Randwick

6. Charlie Cale (3 Tests) - #976; Beecroft Junior Rugby Club

7. Carlo Tizzano (15 Tests) - #982; University of Western Australia

8. Harry Wilson (c) (40 Tests) - #933; Gunnedah Red Devils

9. Ryan Lonergan (9 Tests) - #993; Tuggeranong Vikings

10. Carter Gordon (10 Tests) - #967; Sunshine Coast Grammar School

11. Harry Potter (13 Tests) - #989; Moorabbin Rams