Alaalatoa to captain Wallabies against Argentina in Jujuy Test

Australia go into Saturday’s Argentina Test after beating Japan 56-17 in Townsville, following a 35-32 win in Osaka. Allan Alaalatoa will captain the Wallabies in Jujuy, while victory would lift Australia above Argentina to seventh in the world rankings.

The experienced tighthead prop takes over from regular captain Harry Wilson, who has been rested for the Test. Wilson’s absence also brings a change at No 8, with Rob Valetini moving into the position for the meeting with Los Pumas.

Coach Les Kiss has altered his entire forward pack while keeping the same backline that started the win over Japan. The selection reflects Australia’s effort to manage a long season and continue building experience in key Test positions.

Tom Hooper returns at blindside flank after a shoulder injury, while Fraser McReight comes back on the openside. Josh Canham and Jeremy Williams will form the second row, with Alaalatoa joining Brandon Paenga-Amosa and Isaac Kailea in the starting front row.

Australia have retained continuity behind the forwards. Ryan Lonergan and Carter Gordon will combine at halfback for a second straight Test, while Hunter Paisami and Isaac Henry remain the midfield pairing. Harry Potter, Max Jorgensen and Tom Wright also continue together in the back three for a fourth consecutive match.

The Wallabies’ recent results have given them momentum before the trip to Argentina, but the hosts remain directly relevant to Australia’s ranking position. A win in Jujuy would move Australia ahead of Argentina and into seventh place, adding significance to Alaalatoa’s first match as captain under the revised selection.