Australia team to face Argentina - Captain Harry Wilson returns in Rugby Championship clash

Wilson’s comeback sees him reclaim the No.8 jersey and the armband, while Reds teammate Tom Lynagh steps in at fly-half. At the back, Andrew Kellaway replaces Tom Wright at fullback, bringing experience and balance to a youthful backline.

The selection maintains a steady hand in midfield, where Len Ikitau and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii line up together for the ninth consecutive Test. On the wings, Corey Toole keeps his spot after debuting in Cape Town, while Max Jorgensen continues to grow into his international role on the right.

Wilson’s inclusion forces a structural shift up front, with Tom Hooper moving into the second row following Will Skelton’s departure. Schmidt has otherwise kept faith with his tight five, retaining Tom Robertson, Taniela Tupou, and Billy Pollard in the front row, alongside Nick Frost.

The back row of Wilson, Rob Valetini and Fraser McReight offers mobility and punch, while veteran scrum-half Nic White links with Lynagh in a new halves pairing. On the bench, Carlo Tizzano and Filipo Daugunu return, while James O’Connor shifts into a finishing fly-half role after starting last time out.

“The players have reassembled after a few days break, following our two games in South Africa, and worked their way through a very warm week here in Townsville,” Schmidt said.

“Los Pumas are a combative and skilled side, and they will be confident after their recent performances. We know we’re going to need to be at our very best on Saturday afternoon.”

With Argentina riding strong form and Schmidt still bedding in his systems, Townsville promises to serve up another intriguing test of Australia’s depth and direction.

1. Tom Robertson – 34 caps
2. Billy Pollard – 12 caps
3. Taniela Tupou – 61 caps
4. Nick Frost – 31 caps
5. Tom Hooper – 15 caps
6. Rob Valetini – 54 caps
7. Fraser McReight – 31 caps
8. Harry Wilson (captain) – 27 caps
9. Nic White – 75 caps
10. Tom Lynagh – 6 caps
11. Corey Toole – 1 cap
12. Len Ikitau – 45 caps
13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii – 10 caps
14. Max Jorgensen – 13 caps
15. Andrew Kellaway – 43 caps

Replacements:
16. Brandon Paenga-Amosa – 23 caps
17. Angus Bell – 41 caps
18. Zane Nonggorr – 14 caps
19. Jeremy Williams – 16 caps
20. Carlo Tizzano – 8 caps
21. Tate McDermott – 47 caps
22. James O’Connor – 66 caps
23. Filipo Daugunu – 12 caps