Australia Names Tizzano for Home Test vs Italy

Key Changes to Australia’s Squad

Carlo Tizzano will open the scrum in his hometown on Saturday, replacing Fraser McReight who starred in last week’s 42‑26 defeat to Six Nations champion France. The Perth‑born lock is one of three fresh faces in the starting XV, joining injury‑driven switches that move Brandon Paenga‑Amosa to hooker and Harry Potter onto the wing. Joe Schmidt’s side is already juggling a rotating plan for the third weekend of the Nations Championship, where staying accurate and maintaining intensity will be crucial against a dangerous Italian side.

Italy’s Injury Concerns

Italy enter the match without lock Niccolò Cannone, who is serving a four‑week ban after a head‑buttred carded against New Zealand. The Azzurri also lost their tournament‑opener to Japan and fell 47‑17 to the All Blacks, highlighting a period of struggle. Their recent form includes a competitive Six Nations performance where they beat Scotland and England before losing close contests. The squad will need to find a way to close the gaps left by Cannone’s absence and previous defeats.

Match Context and Outlook

Saturday’s fixture marks Joe Schmidt’s final test as Wallabies head coach, with the Australian side still mired in a six‑test losing streak. Schmidt’s statement underscored the need to improve after surrendering leads against both France (21‑12 to 30‑30) and Ireland (33‑31). He will aim to secure a win before handing over to Les Kiss, whose first duties will be against Japan next month. Declan Meredith retains the fly‑half role after his debut, while Ben Donaldson returns from injury as bench cover, ousting Jock Campbell.

Full Starting Lineup

Australia’s backline features Tom Wright, Max Jorgensen, Joseph‑Aukuso Suaalii, Len Ikitau, Harry Potter, Declan Meredith, Ryan Lonergan, with Harry Wilson captaining the pack. Carlo Tizzano leads the scrum, supported by Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Josh Canham, Allan Alaalatoa, Brandon Paenga‑Amosa and Angus Bell. The bench includes Billy Pollard, James Slipper, Zane Nonggorr, Miles Amatosero, Fraser McReight, Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson and Filipo Daugunu.