The Wallabies have named Connal McInerney to debut in the opening game of their spring tour.
McInerney has been named on the bench for Saturday’s (3.45pm AEDT) Test against Japan at Oita Stadium.
“Connal’s strong set piece and all-around game has earned him a chance to represent his country, which is a proud moment for him and his family,” coach Dave Rennie said of the Brumbies hooker.
Stan Sport is the only place to watch Wallabies vs Japan on October 23 and All Blacks vs USA on October 24 – both matches streaming ad free, live and on demand on Stan Sport. Start your seven day free trial here!
Hunter Paisami has been named to replace the injured Samu Kerevi at inside centre, after the latter failed to overcome an ankle injury in time for the game.
Matt Phillip returning to the second row, Rob Leota at blindside flanker and Tom Wright on the wing are the other changes.
James Slipper will surpass Will Genia and Sekope Kepu, and draw level with George Smith, when he plays his 111th Test for Australia.
“We’ve got a huge amount of respect for the Brave Blossoms who are now competitive with the best sides in the world,” Rennie said of Japan.
“We’ll need to be at our best.”
The Wallabies will later fly to the UK to play three more Tests during November.
WALLABIES v JAPAN
Team: 1. James Slipper (110 Tests) 2. Folau Fainga’a (21 Tests) 3. Taniela Tupou (35 Tests) 4. Izack Rodda (30 Tests) 5. Matt Philip (19 Tests) 6. Rob Leota (2 Tests) 7. Michael Hooper (c) (115 Tests) 8. Rob Valetini (14 Tests) 9. Nic White (43 Tests) 10. Quade Cooper (74 Tests) 11. Andrew Kellaway (9 Tests) 12. Hunter Paisami (11 Tests) 13. Len Ikitau (9 Tests) 14. Tom Wright (6 Tests) 15. Reece Hodge (53 Tests) Replacements 16. Connal McInerney* 17. Angus Bell (12 Tests) 18. Allan Alaalatoa (50 Tests) 19. Darcy Swain (9 Tests) 20. Pete Samu (15 Tests) 21. Tate McDermott (11 Tests) 22. James O’Connor (57 Tests) 23. Jordan Petaia (14 Tests)
For a daily dose of the best of the breaking news and exclusive content from Wide World of Sports, subscribe to our newsletter by clicking here!