Wallabies name side for World Cup opener against Georgia
Thu, Sep 7, 2023, 8:27 PM
by Nathan Williamson for RA
Wallabies coach Eddie Jones has confirmed his side to face Georgia in their Rugby World Cup opener.
Jones has opted for Ben Donaldson at fullback, with the Waratah starting his first Test at the back.
Donaldson is one of 17 Wallabies set to play in their first World Cup game, with the team averaging just 19 total Test caps.
Samu Kerevi has recovered from a broken hand, partnering Jordan Petaia in the centres.
Marika Koroibete re-takes his place on the wing as Suliasi Vunivalu reverts to the bench.
“The Rugby World Cup is the biggest stage in the world and the players can see the opportunity that’s ahead of them over the next eight weeks," Jones said in a statement
“With the youngest team at the Rugby World Cup, the excitement level in the group is high and we’ve had a good preparation for the tournament working hard on our game."
Taniela Tupou will play his 50th Test for the Wallabies, starting alongside Waratah duo Angus Bell and Dave Porecki.
French-based duo Will Skelton and Richie Arnold will complete the second-row, with Jones opting for an unchanged back-row of Tom Hooper, Fraser McReight and Rob Valetini.
James Slipper and Pone Fa'amausili remain on the sideline with injury, allowing Blake Schoupp and Zane Nonggorr to make their World Cup debut off the bench.
“All 20 teams are at the starting line now and it’s important we get off to a fast start against Georgia on Saturday night," Jones added.
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Team to play Georgia at Stade de France, Paris on Saturday 9 September, 6:00pm CET/2:00am Sunday AEST
Wallabies
1. Angus Bell (24 Tests)
2. David Porecki (15 Tests)
3. Taniela Tupou (49 Tests)
4. Richie Arnold (5 Tests)
5. Will Skelton (c) (29 Tests)
6. Tom Hooper (4 Tests)
7. Fraser McReight (13 Tests)
8. Rob Valetini (35 Tests)
9. Tate McDermott (vc) (26 Tests)
10. Carter Gordon (5 Tests)
11. Marika Koroibete (55 Tests)
12. Samu Kerevi (45 Tests)
13. Jordan Petaia (28 Tests)
14. Mark Nawaqanitawase (7 Tests)
15. Ben Donaldson (3 Tests)
16. Matt Faessler (2 Tests)
17. Blake Schoupp (1 Test)
18. Zane Nonggorr (3 Tests)
19. Rob Leota (17 Tests)
20. Langi Gleeson (4 Tests)
21. Nic White (63 Tests)
22. Lalakai Foketi (6 Tests)
23. Suliasi Vunivalu (3 Tests)
