Wallaby star set to miss Bok Tests
SPOTLIGHT: The Wallabies have suffered a big blow ahead of this year’s Rugby Championship.
Joe Schmidt’s side will kick off their campaign in South Africa with Tests against the Springboks in Johannesburg and Cape Town in August.
However, they will have to pick up the pieces after a series defeat to the British and Irish Lions, and that includes injuries.
On Tuesday, the Wallaby camp confirmed that experienced prop Allan Alaalatoa will miss Saturday’s third Test against the Lions in Sydney because of a shoulder injury he suffered in the 26-29 loss in Melbourne.
The story continues below…
🤕 Wishing you a speedy recovery Al.#Wallabies pic.twitter.com/tnV7eTvX0o
— Wallabies (@wallabies) July 28, 2025
Reports coming out of Australia indicate that the 31-year-old could even undergo surgery, which will rule him out of the Tests against the Springboks.
His absence explains the call-up on Monday of former All Blacks prop Aidan Ross, who has linked up with the Wallabies for the first time.
It is more likely, however, that Tom Robertson, who came off the bench in the first two Tests, or Taniela Tupou will start in the front row on Saturday in Sydney.
“He’s a massive part of the group,” forward Jeremy Williams said of Alaalatoa.
“We just wish him the best in his recovery and hopefully he’ll be back out there soon.”
Williams had praise for Ross, who was born in Australia before moving to New Zealand as a child, playing one Test for the All Blacks in 2022 before switching allegiances this year.
The 29-year-old was a long-time Chiefs player, but he will play for Queensland Reds from next season.
“He’s a great bloke and he trains really hard,” said Williams.
“He’s been in a few different systems now, so I’m sure he’s going to add a lot of value to the group.”
Wing Harry Potter has also been ruled out injured, with coach Joe Schmidt having several options to replace him, including Dylan Pietsch, Filipo Daugunu and Corey Toole.
Australia head into the game desperate to avoid a whitewash, after losing the opening Test in Brisbane 19-27.
Lock Nick Frost said the team were hungry for another shot at Andy Farrell’s men after their disappointment at losing in Melbourne to Hugo Keenan’s controversial late try.
“There’s a bit of fire in the belly from the last couple of games, and you’re playing in Sydney, for a lot of the boys, that’s [their] hometown,” he said.
“You’re playing for your nation, playing for your family first and foremost too.”
Additional source: The Roar & AFP
