Joe Schmidt has vowed that the Wallabies won't be submissive in their do-or-die second Test against the British and Irish Lions. Insisting the return of powerhouse forwards Will Skelton and Rob Valetini can ignite a side bracing for the biggest game of their careers.
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Hooker Dave Porecki, Skelton, and Valetini have all been recalled to the starting XV. Schmidt has opted for continuity in the backline that featured in the opening Test. Setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at a packed MCG in front of more than 90,000 fans.
Australia's 27-19 defeat in Brisbane was a tough blow, with the Wallabies overwhelmed early before rallying in the second half. Schmidt, however, has hinted that a more aggressive and unified Australian side is ready to flip the script.
Calling on his players to deliver a statement performance with the team's identity and the sport's momentum in the country on the line. Wallabies don't want to be nice. We don't want to be submissive, Schmidt said in Melbourne.
We didn't have the intention last week, and we don't have the intention this week of being submissive. We're hopeful that we'll be able to take it to them and keep them on the back foot a little bit more.
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British and Irish Lions 2025: Schmidt Backs Wallabies to Deliver in Pivotal Test
Winning the second half helps, but we know we need to stack more of those winning moments together. This weekend is pivotal. We just want to win. I'd certainly love that to happen. Valetini and Skelton, both crucial enforcers for the Wallabies. Missed the opener due to injury but now returns to bolster the forward pack.
Valetini, a back-to-back John Eales Medal winner, brings go-forward and physicality. While Skelton, a European champion with La Rochelle, adds calm leadership and serious impact. Valetini trained well today, and we're happy to have him back, said Schmidt.
He brings confidence to other players as well because of his experience and his ability to take the ball forward. Will has that same experience, and he knows how to beat these guys; he's done it before. Schmidt has kept faith in halfback Jake Gordon and No.10 Tom Lynagh to guide the side.
Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii remains at outside-centre despite public calls to shift him to the wing. Schmidt said making too many changes could hinder progress. It's our third game in nine months. If you're chopping and changing too much, then I think you can destabilise your growth, he explained. Three changes in the pack are significant enough.
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British Irish Lions 2025: Power Over Versatility for Second Test
To manage Valetini's possible limited minutes, Schmidt has named six forwards on the bench and left out utility back Andrew Kellaway. If needed, Harry Potter will shift into the midfield, with Ben Donaldson covering the back three.
With the weight of expectations and the eyes of a nation watching, Schmidt and his team know there's no margin for error. Saturday isn't just about keeping the series alive; it's about proving the Wallabies still have the grit, belief, and firepower to go toe-to-toe with the very best in world rugby.
It's what shapes up to be a defining moment for the Wallabies. Joe Schmidt has laid down a clear marker ahead of the crucial second Test. Australia will not back down. With the powerful returns of Will Skelton and Rob Valetini, and a firm belief in the side's ability to respond.
Schmidt is backing his men to rise to the occasion. Facing a fired-up Lions outfit and a packed MCG, the Wallabies know the stakes couldn't be higher. Now, it's about turning intent into impact and delivering a performance that reasserts their pride and purpose on the international stage.
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