The Wallabies haven’t played Fiji since the Pacific Islanders caused one of the great World Cup upsets with a 22-15 win in 2023 which eliminated the Australians and set the scene for former coach Eddie Jones’ exit. Former NRL gun, and rugby’s $5m man, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii will also play his first Test in Australia as the Wallabies officially launch their campaign ahead of three clashes against the British and Irish Lions. Porecki was captain for the final three games of that ill-fated campaign in France, the last time he played for the Wallabies and now the Waratahs hooker joins an entirely new-look gteam under coach Joe Schmidt. The one-off clash with Fiji looms as crucial for the Wallabies to prepare for the three-match showdown with the Lions who have already shown imposing form taking down the Western Force and Queensland Reds. Reigning John Eales medallist as the Wallabies best player, Rob Valetini was a notable name missing from the team after he succumbed to a calf injury with giant Will Skelton also missing for the same reason. Reds captain Tate McDermott, who didn’t play the Lions, will start at scrum-half and partner Noah Lolesio, who wore the number 10 jersey in 11 of the Wallabies’ 13 Tests last year. “The whole squad has worked hard on and off the field and reconnected well with a short runway from our assembly through to the Test on Sunday against Fiji,” Schmidt said. “I think the players and the wider management are keen to get underway, especially in front of a big crowd here in Newcastle, as we kick off an exciting but incredibly demanding 2025 Test match schedule.” Harry Wilson will captain the team while another Wallaby who made his debut on last year’s spring tour, Harry Potter has also earned his first test on home soil in a backline which will include 20-year-old Max Jorgensen on the wing and Tom Wright at fullback. The Wallabies haven’t played Fiji since the Pacific Islanders caused one of the great World Cup upsets with a 22-15 win which eliminated the Australians and set the scene for former coach Eddie Jones’ exit. Wallabies team to play Fiji 1. James Slipper 2. David Porecki 3. Allan Alaalatoa 4. Nick Frost 5. Jeremy Williams 6. Langi Gleeson 7. Fraser McReight 8. Harry Wilson (c) 9. Tate McDermott 10. Noah Lolesio 11. Max Jorgensen 12. Len Ikitau 13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii 14. Harry Potter 15. Tom Wright Substitutes 16. Billy Pollard 17. Angus Bell 18. Zane Nonggorr 19. Tom Hooper 20. Carlo Tizzano 21. Nic White 22. Ben Donaldson 23. Filipo Daugunu