By ABC News
Hooker Dave Porecki is back in the Wallabies’ starting XV for the first time since the 2023 Rugby World Cup, where he captained Australia in a historic loss to Fiji.
Porecki was named to face Fiji in Newcastle on Sunday in a forward pack that is missing Rob Valetini and Will Skelton, who both have calf injuries.
Waratahs skipper Jake Gordon and Red fly-half Tom Lynagh were also unavailable for selection as they work their way to full fitness.
Starting at number eight, Harry Wilson has retained the Wallabies captaincy after leading the side on the Northern Hemisphere spring tour.
The Wallabies are gearing up for their first Test against the British and Irish Lions in Brisbane on July 19 but are aware Fiji could rock those preparations.
Porecki is one of nine players backing up from the last clash between the two nations during the 2023 tournament in France, where Fiji posted their first victory over the Wallabies in 69 years, winning 22-15.
He captained Australia in three World Cup matches, with the Wallabies bowing out at the pool stage for the first time.
Porecki then missed all of 2024 due to a chronic Achilles tendon issue.
He has been named ahead of the Brumbies’ Billy Pollard, who was the stand-out Australian hooker in Super Rugby Pacific.
The 32-year-old’s selection suggests Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt wants to give the Waratahs rake more match time after he was sidelined for part of the Super Rugby Pacific season because of injury.
“The whole squad has worked hard on and off the field and reconnected well with a short runway from our assembly through to the Test on Sunday against Fiji,” Schmidt said in a statement.
“I think the players and the wider management are keen to get underway, especially in front of a big crowd here in Newcastle, as we kick off an exciting but incredibly demanding 2025 Test match schedule.”
Porecki will anchor an experienced front row of James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa, with Jeremy Williams and Nick Frost the locks after five appearances in 2024.
Waratahs number eight Langi Gleeson will start at blindside flanker, with Fraser McReight on the other side of the scrum.
Tate McDermott and Noah Lolesio are the starting halves, while Len Ikitau will link in the centres with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, who is playing his first Test in Australia.
Harry Potter in also making his home debut with Max Jorgensen the other wing and fullback Tom Wright rounding out the backline.
Wallabies team: James Slipper, David Porecki, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick Frost, Jeremy Williams, Langi Gleeson, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson (c), Tate McDermott, Noah Lolesio, Max Jorgensen, Len Ikitau, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Harry Potter, Tom Wright
Reserves: Billy Pollard, Angus Bell, Zane Nonggorr, Tom Hooper, Carlo Tizzano, Nic White, Ben Donaldson, Filipo Daugunu