Overview

• Rugby Australia confirmed Valetini would not travel to Auckland due to calf tightness for the opening Bledisloe Cup Test.
• Pete Samu has been called into the squad as cover, positioning the 33-cap back-rower for a possible first Test since 2023.
• Valetini has battled recurring calf problems this year, with limited Test minutes across the season.
• His availability for the second Test in Perth on October 4 remains uncertain, according to team reporting.
• Australia already lack other heavy carriers with Will Skelton unavailable and Langi Gleeson sidelined, though Allan Alaalatoa is expected to return.