Les Kiss has taken charge of the Wallabies coaching role and will oversee his first match this week in Osaka, Japan, where extreme heat is expected to be a significant factor. The forecast temperature of 36C combined with the importance of the fixture creates considerable pressure in the early stages of his tenure leading up to next year’s World Cup, which Australia will host.
Kiss has opted for relative continuity in his team selection, retaining most players from the squad that finished Joe Schmidt’s era with mixed results. Ryan Lonergan continues as scrum-half with Declan Meredith at No. 10, while Hunter Paisami replaces the injured Len Ikitau at inside centre. The forward pack includes several changes, featuring first Wallabies appearances for prop Aidan Ross and second rower Miles Amatosero. Carter Gordon remains unavailable for the 23-player squad due to injury.
Japan has emerged as a formidable opponent in recent years, with the Brave Blossoms now ranked just two places below Australia internationally. Under coach Eddie Jones, the Japanese squad has narrowed the performance gap, including a competitive match against Australia last year that ended 19-15. Japan recently defeated Italy 27-10 and competed closely against both Ireland and France in recent matches. The Japanese roster includes four naturalised Australians, including Harry Hockings, who left Australian rugby in 2020 to pursue opportunities in Japan.
Wallabies captain Harry Wilson acknowledged Japan’s improved standing and physical capabilities following their recent performances. Kiss emphasized the need to maintain intensity throughout the full match duration and indicated that his team selection considered both the challenging heat conditions and Japan’s particular strengths. He avoided implementing wholesale tactical changes, instead focusing on tactical adjustments deemed appropriate for the specific circumstances of facing this opponent in these conditions.
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