Les Kiss announces first Wallabies squad for Japan test series

Les Kiss officially took over as Wallabies head coach and unveiled a 34‑player squad for the two‑test series against Japan in August, with matches scheduled for Osaka on 8 August and Townsville on 15 August. The selection retains No 8 Harry Wilson as captain, recalls lock Lukhan Salakaia‑Loto, adds prop Isaac Kailea and includes only one uncapped player, centre Isaac Henry. Veteran Len Ikitau (ankle) and Tom Hooper (shoulder) miss the series through injury, while other newcomers such as Isaac Kailea replace long‑serving James Slipper.

Kiss emphasized continuity with the previous regime, describing his approach as “evolution rather than revolution” and stressing the importance of playing the traditional Australian style ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil. He noted that the squad balances form, cohesion and the desire to restore the Wallabies to winning ways.