Overview
- Rugby Australia confirmed Rob Valetini will miss the Auckland Test with calf tightness and his status for the Perth match on October 4 remains unclear.
- Pete Samu has been drafted into the squad for a potential first Test since 2023 and has committed to Australian rugby through the 2027 World Cup with the Waratahs.
- Australia also lack Will Skelton due to French club commitments and Langi Gleeson through injury, further reducing their forward power.
- Prop Allan Alaalatoa is reported to be on track for a return after a shoulder injury suffered during the British and Irish Lions series.
- The Bledisloe is a two-match series with the All Blacks holding the cup, and Eden Park remains a daunting venue where Australia have not won since 1986 and New Zealand last lost in 1994.