Star withdraws from final Lions test after facing 'online social media abuse'

Valetini, one of Australia’s best performers in the first half at the MCG last weekend, is being handled with care after feeling tightness in the same area that forced him off at halftime. Head coach Joe Schmidt made it clear that Valetini isn't dealing with a long-term issue, but the decision was made to give him a week off.

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“It was precautionary bringing him off [last week], and it is precautionary not playing him this week,” Schmidt said.
“Just because we don’t want to cause more damage when we have a big Test schedule coming up.”

Tizzano, meanwhile, had been named on the bench for the second Test in a 6–2 forward-heavy split and made an impact in his short stint. But with the Wallabies returning to a more traditional 5–3 bench this week, he was the unlucky one to drop out.

Schmidt revealed the decision wasn’t purely about tactics. The 25-year-old has had a tough week away from the field, too.

Following a controversial incident at the end of the second Test, where he was cleaned out by Lions captain Jac Morgan, Tizzano found himself on the receiving end of intense online criticism. Schmidt didn’t hesitate to defend him, pointing out the severity of the hit and the impact it’s had.

“He’s had a really tough week, Carlo,” Schmidt said. “He’s copped a lot of online abuse.”
“There were just over 54 Gs of direct force that went through the neck, and 220 RADs of rotational force — enough to cause serious injury.
Not to a rugby player as well-conditioned as Carlo, but he’s best left to take a deep breath."

Schmidt confirmed Tizzano was sore early in the week and wasn’t a sure thing to train, but bounced back to his usual self by midweek. Even so, the coaching group decided it was best to give him time to reset.

Up front, Taniela Tupou returns to the gold jersey for the first time this year, stepping in for the injured Allan Alaalatoa. He’ll be alongside David Porecki and James Slipper, who will notch up his 147th Test cap.

Veteran halfback Nic White has been named to start at No. 9 in what will be his 73rd and final Test for Australia, after announcing his retirement from international rugby. He’ll link up with Tom Lynagh, who holds onto the No. 10 jersey for a third straight week. In the midfield, Len Ikitau and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii continue their strong centre pairing for a sixth match running.

Dylan Pietsch comes onto the left wing in place of the injured Harry Potter, finally getting the chance to wear the jersey he helped design for this series. He joins Tom Wright and crowd favourite Max Jorgensen, who will play his first Test in front of a home Sydney crowd.

On the bench, Billy Pollard covers hooker, with Angus Bell and Zane Nonggorr rounding out the front-row reserves. Jeremy Williams is named as lock cover, while Langi Gleeson takes the back-row spot.

Tate McDermott, who filled in admirably on the wing last week, will once again offer energy off the bench. He’ll be joined by Ben Donaldson and Andrew Kellaway to complete the matchday 23.

he tournament’s structure and timing now better reflect current global rankings, thanks to a late pool draw in December this year made possible by reforms in 2022.

Here’s a breakdown of the predicted groups and team bios for the RWC 2027:

??

Argentina ??
Los Pumas continue to rise as a Tier 1 nation, combining flair and fearlessness. Semifinalists in 2007 and 2015, they’re known for big-game upsets.

Samoa ??
With deep roots in rugby tradition, Samoa’s raw physicality and natural flair make them one of the most dangerous Tier 2 teams in the game.

Tonga ??
The ‘Ikale Tahi’ bring bone-crunching tackles and island pride. With several stars playing abroad, Tonga is always capable of springing a surprise.

New Zealand ??
The legendary All Blacks need no introduction—three-time world champions with a relentless pursuit of perfection and a legacy of innovation.

Scotland ?
A Six Nations stalwart, Scotland blends tactical kicking and dynamic playmakers, looking to go beyond the quarterfinals for the first time since 1991.

Japan ??
The Brave Blossoms became global darlings in 2019 with a stunning quarterfinal run. Expect lightning-quick rucks and passionate homegrown talent.

Chile ??
One of the emerging forces from South America, Chile made its first RWC appearance in 2023. Physical, proud, and improving fast.

Ireland ??
The current Six Nations champions and long-time world number one, Ireland seek to finally break their quarterfinal curse with a golden generation.

Fiji ??
Masters of running rugby, Fiji’s offloading game and growing discipline under top-tier coaching make them a serious threat to any opponent.

Spain ??
Los Leones are rapidly growing in the European rugby scene, blending speed and flair. Their qualification signals a new frontier for Spanish sport.

Romania ??
One of Europe’s oldest rugby nations, the Oaks are known for forward dominance and proud World Cup heritage dating back to the tournament's inception.

France ??
With dazzling backs and a rock-solid forward pack, Les Bleus are perennial contenders. Hosting in 2023 has reinvigorated their World Cup ambitions.

Italy ??
Improving steadily in the Six Nations, Italy combines young talent with seasoned veterans, eager to progress past the pool stage for the first time.

USA ??
The Eagles are building toward hosting the 2031 RWC, and 2027 will be a crucial stepping stone. Athleticism is abundant—structure is the next step.

Belgium ??
A surprise qualifier, Belgium’s Black Devils have risen thanks to domestic development and strategic coaching. This is their chance to make history.

England ?
The 2003 world champions remain a major force. With a powerful set piece and tactical nous, they always make deep runs in World Cups.

Georgia ??
Kings of the scrum, Georgia has long pushed for inclusion in the Six Nations. 2027 could be their breakout year on the global stage.

Uruguay ??
Los Teros have become a staple at RWCs and continue to punch above their weight, fueled by tenacity and growing domestic structures.

Hong Kong China ??
A fast-developing rugby nation, Hong Kong brings agility and speed. Their appearance in 2027 is a testament to Asia’s growing rugby footprint.

Australia ?? (Host)
Two-time champions and hosts of RWC 2027, the Wallabies are looking to bounce back from recent struggles with the home crowd behind them.

Wales ?
A proud rugby nation with three semifinal appearances, Wales combines tradition with explosive talent in the backline.

Portugal ??
The "Lobos" won hearts in 2023 with their fearless play. Technically sharp and fast-improving, they are no longer underdogs.

Zimbabwe ??
Returning to the RWC stage for the first time in decades, Zimbabwe’s qualification marks a historic comeback for African rugby.

The expanded format ensures more nations, more stories, and more reasons to believe in rugby’s global mission. For some teams, it’s about lifting the Webb Ellis Cup. For others, it’s about making history, inspiring a new generation, and proving that rugby is for everyone, everywhere.

With Australia as the host—rugby-mad and world-class—the stage is set for the most inclusive Rugby World Cup ever.