James joins Wallabies for Lions Test series under Joe Schmidt as Australia prepares for a fierce three-match showdown with the British & Irish Lions, bringing back veteran out-half James O’Connor after Noah Lolesio was ruled out with a neck injury.
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O’Connor Returns for a Second Lions Series
Joe Schmidt, Australia’s head coach, has recalled 35-year-old James O’Connor, giving him another chance against the Lions after his 2013 series where he started at 10 in all three Tests. O’Connor, who last played for Australia in 2022, impressed with New Zealand’s Crusaders this year, aiding their Super Rugby Pacific title win, even though he did not start any matches. Schmidt values his experience to guide young playmakers Ben Donaldson and Tom Lynagh during the demanding series.
Injury Challenges and Fresh Opportunities
Noah Lolesio, who required neck surgery following whiplash during the win over Fiji, will miss the series. Meanwhile, Will Skelton and Rob Valetini, who were absent against Fiji due to calf injuries, are back, and Dave Porecki has been included despite a concussion in the same match. Josh Canham also joins the squad after impressing against the Lions while playing for the Queensland Reds.
Leadership Decisions Await Confirmation
While Harry Wilson has led Australia in their last three Tests, Schmidt is holding off on naming a captain for the series until he is confident the player can participate fully. Jake Gordon, a potential captain, remains in the squad after missing the Fiji game with a hamstring strain, joining Nic White and Tate McDermott as scrum-half options.
Uncapped Talent Added to Squad
Winger Corey Toole and flanker Nick Champion de Crespigny are the only uncapped players in Schmidt’s 36-man squad. Toole demonstrated his speed by scoring a try against the Lions for the ACT Brumbies, while Champion de Crespigny featured against the tourists for Western Force.
Schmidt Ready for Lions Challenge
Joe Schmidt knows the Lions will bring intensity and depth, especially in the final quarters of games, and he is eager to test his squad against this challenge, with the series set to begin in Brisbane on July 19, followed by matches in Melbourne and Sydney over the next two weekends.
