James O’Connor has rejoined the Wallabies in New Zealand after a brief trip to England to settle in with his new club, Leicester Tigers. O’Connor’s return comes ahead of a significant match on September 27, 2025, where teammate James Slipper will achieve the milestone of his 150th Test cap.
Initially, there were speculations regarding O’Connor’s trip to England, but Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt clarified that it was always part of the plan. “He was going back to set his flat up, get his dog over there,” Schmidt explained. O’Connor spent time with Leicester’s coach, Geoff Parling, before returning to focus on the upcoming challenge against the All Blacks.
Slipper’s Milestone and Team Changes
Slipper, who debuted at the age of 21 in 2010, will become only the third player in history to reach 150 Tests, joining renowned players Alun Wyn Jones of Wales and Sam Whitelock of New Zealand. Schmidt praised Slipper’s continuous dedication to self-improvement, stating, “It’s incredible… he’s still working on his game to add a little bit more value to the team.”
In this milestone match, Slipper will lead the front row alongside hooker Billy Pollard and tighthead prop Taniela Tupou. Meanwhile, Allan Alaalatoa returns to the bench after recovering from a shoulder injury. Tate McDermott, stepping in for the retired Nic White, will also reach his own milestone with 50 Tests.
The Wallabies have seen several changes due to injuries. Andrew Kellaway is sidelined with a calf injury, adding to the loss of star fullback Tom Wright, who is recovering from an ACL injury. In Kellaway’s absence, Max Jorgensen will take the fullback position.
Rugby Championship Context
Australia currently leads the Rugby Championship with a record of 2-2, aided by three bonus points in their four matches. Following the clash against the All Blacks in Auckland, the Wallabies will host New Zealand again in Perth the following week.
Despite these challenges, Schmidt remains optimistic about the team’s potential. “These next two weeks are a very big challenge,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming matches.
The Wallabies are set to face the All Blacks at Eden Park on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 15:00 AEST. The match not only marks a crucial point in the Rugby Championship but also serves as a testament to Slipper’s enduring career in international rugby.
WALLABIES SQUAD: Max Jorgensen, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Len Ikitau, Corey Toole, James O’Connor, Tate McDermott, Harry Wilson (captain), Fraser McReight, Tom Hooper, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Nick Frost, Taniela Tupou, Billy Pollard, James Slipper. Reserves: Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Angus Bell, Allan Alaalatoa, Jeremy Williams, Carlo Tizzano, Ryan Lonergan, Tane Edmed, Filipo Daugunu.
