The Wallabies are set to face Japan in Tokyo on March 15, 2024, marking the beginning of their spring tour. This match carries added significance as it pits the Australian team against their former coach, Eddie Jones, who led the Wallabies during two separate tenures, most recently concluding in 2023. Under his leadership, the Wallabies faced a disappointing exit from the Rugby World Cup, failing to reach the knockout stage for the first time in history.
Jones’s departure from the Wallabies followed a tumultuous period, culminating in his resignation after the World Cup. Shortly thereafter, he rejoined Japan’s national team, further intensifying the rivalry. His competitive spirit was evident in recent media comments, where he recalled his impressive record against Australia while coaching England, stating, “I enjoy beating Australia — I coached against them 10 times for England and beat them nine times.” This adds a layer of intrigue as both teams prepare for their encounter.
The Wallabies, led by coach Joe Schmidt, have opted for a strategic approach, resting several key players for the match. Schmidt made significant changes to the squad following their recent 28-14 defeat against the All Blacks in Perth. In a noteworthy development, Nick Champion de Crespigny will captain the Wallabies, becoming the 92nd player to hold this honor. The Canberra native is set to lead the team in only his third Test match after a strong debut season in Super Rugby Pacific.
Harry Wilson, the usual captain for this season, will start on the bench alongside Aidan Ross, who is poised to make his Wallabies debut as a prop. The full matchday squad includes:
– 15. Andrew Kellaway
– 14. Corey Toole
– 13. Josh Flook
– 12. Hunter Paisami
– 11. Dylan Pietsch
– 10. Tane Edmed
– 9. Jake Gordon
– 8. Rob Valetini
– 7. Carlo Tizzano
– 6. Nick Champion de Crespigny (C)
– 5. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto
– 4. Jeremy Williams
– 3. Zane Nonggorr
– 2. Josh Nasser
– 1. Angus Bell
Reserves:
– 16. Billy Pollard
– 17. Aidan Ross
– 18. Tom Robertson
– 19. Josh Canham
– 20. Harry Wilson
– 21. Ryan Lonergan
– 22. Hamish Stewart
– 23. Filipo Daugunu
Tokyo serves as the first destination on the Wallabies’ extensive spring tour, which will see them travel to five different countries over the coming weeks. Fans can follow live updates and commentary for this Test match through various platforms, ensuring they stay engaged with every moment of the action.
As the Wallabies prepare to take the field, the excitement is palpable. Kick-off is scheduled for 16:50 AEDT, promising a thrilling start to the tour and a challenging encounter against Jones’s determined Japan side.
