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last wk.

O’Connor Recalled to Start at Flyhalf for Wallabies in Johannesburg

Injuries to Tom Lynagh prompted the Wallabies to recall the veteran flyhalf.

Rugby Union - Autumn International - Scotland v Australia - BT Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, Britain - November 7, 2021 Australia's James O’Connor scores a penalty goal REUTERS/Russell Cheyne/File Photo
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PERTH, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 06: Matt Toomua of the Wallabies looks to avoid being tackled by Jan Serfontein of the Springboks during The Rugby Championship match between the Australian Wallabies and the South African Springboks at Patersons Stadium on September 6, 2014 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Gallo Images)
James O'Connor fresh from helping Crusaders win the Super Rugby title starts for Australia against world champions South Africa

Overview

  • James O’Connor will don the No.10 jersey for Saturday’s Rugby Championship opener in Johannesburg, marking his first Test for Australia since 2022.
  • Coach Joe Schmidt made the selection after Tom Lynagh suffered a concussion and Noah Lolesio was ruled out, prioritizing experience in the pivot role.
  • Ben Donaldson was omitted from the matchday 23 as flanker Nick Champion de Crespigny earned a bench spot under Schmidt’s six-forwards-two-backs arrangement.
  • Scrumhalf Nic White postponed his international retirement to join the tour and will partner O’Connor in the halves.
  • The squad has adjusted to the time zone and high altitude ahead of the Ellis Park Test as Australia chases its first win at the venue since 1963.