Advertisement
The AUNZ Invitational side has assembled in Adelaide following the announcement of the full squad this week that will take on the British & Irish Lions. The team boasts a lineup full of Aussie and Kiwi superstars, with 18 internationals in the mix.
If the non-selection of Wallabies veterans James O’Connor, Bernard Foley, Will Skelton, and Samu Kerevi is any indication, Joe Schmidt is keeping a very keen eye on this game, preferring youth and Super Rugby loyalty over experience.
While the players soak up the Barossa Valley and enjoy a few Shiraz to really forge that ANZAC spirit, this test represents a very real opportunity for some fringe Australian players to stake their claim for inclusion in the Wallabies squad for the three-test series against the British & Irish Lions. Meanwhile, New Zealand has come to the party with a host of electric backs and powerful forwards including a few familiar faces returning Down Under.
Here are six players guaranteed to excite the fans and get selectors talking:
The powerful prop has been a very busy man over the past couple of months. After playing in the Super Rugby Pacific final for the Chiefs, he immediately crossed the ditch to take up his contract with the Reds, lining up against the British & Irish Lions at Suncorp a mere two weeks later. Australian-born but New Zealand-raised, Ross is the perfect player to bridge the gap in this AUNZ side. A strong performance, and it's not impossible he could be lining up in Wallabies gold against the Lions in the weeks to come.
Much maligned on and off the field, there’s no doubt that Sotutu’s dynamic ball-carrying and ability to find space will entertain the crowd. With a chip on his shoulder after being passed over for selection by Scott Robertson, this test is made for Sotutu. His powerful running, slick hands, and offloading ability are perfectly suited to the style head coach Les Kiss wants to play. Expect fireworks.
Returning to Australian shores after linking up with the Waratahs in 2026, Samu is fresh off a starring role in Bordeaux's European success. Look out for him ranging out on the flanks, hunting open space. His combination with fellow back-rowers will be fascinating. He is another player who could slip into the Wallabies squad with a strong showing.
After a Wallabies debut last year that ended way too soon, Edmed will be desperate to play some international-level rugby and prove his credentials. With Lolesio ruled out of the Lions Tour and Schmidt unlikely to turn to veterans O’Connor or Foley, a Wallabies call-up is now firmly in Edmed’s hands. A strong, physical fly-half who thrives on direct running and smart decision-making, Edmed has the potential to lead this AUNZ side around the park.
Dubbed ‘the mini-bus’, Laumape is a ball of muscle who can punch through a midfield and cause real destruction. Returning to the southern hemisphere after inking a deal with Moana Pasifika, this will be the first chance audiences have to see him since his time in Japan. His explosive power, combined with deceptive agility, makes him a constant threat in both attack and defence.
Unlucky to miss out on All Blacks selection once again, Stevenson will have a point to prove in this game. His incredible footwork and pace are a joy to watch and potentially game-breaking. As the AUNZ side looks to counter the Lions’ defensive tactics with electric outside backs, this game could be the perfect stage to showcase Stevenson’s world-class skill set.