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NEW YORK Friday, November 6, 2026

Oceania

Australia Adjusts Lineup for England Clash

Australia moves Suaalii to wing and brings back Ikitau for upcoming Nations Championship match.

New York Editorial News Desk November 6, 2026 1 min read

The Brief

  • Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii is moved to the right wing, with Len Ikitau returning to the team.
  • Fraser McReight earns his 50th cap and starts at openside flanker.
  • Kurtley Beale is omitted from the matchday squad.

Australia has made several changes to its lineup ahead of Sunday's Nations Championship match against England. The team has moved Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii to the right wing, with Len Ikitau returning to the squad after missing the previous game due to concussion protocols.

Suaalii previously played at centre in the Wallabies' last match against New Zealand, but the new positioning places him on the right wing for the England encounter. Ikitau is back in the team, having followed concussion protocols.

Fraser McReight will start at openside flanker, marking his 50th appearance for the national team. Rob Valetini has been moved to the bench, while Jeremy Williams is switched from lock to blindside flanker.

Josh Canham, who previously came on as a replacement in the loss to the All Blacks, will start at lock alongside Lukhan Salakaia-Loto. In the front row, Angus Bell returns as the starting loosehead prop with Billy Pollard at hooker, while Josh Nasser and Aidan Ross are dropped from the starting lineup.

Kurtley Beale, a 37-year-old utility back, is not included in the matchday squad. Beale last played test rugby five years ago and was a shock selection for the trip to Britain.

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