Les Kiss Backs Rookie Meredith as Wallabies look to bounce back against All Blacks

Australia head coach Les Kiss insists he still has “a lot of faith” in his squad as the Wallabies prepare to recover from a heavy Bledisloe Cup defeat and attempt to end their 12-match losing streak against New Zealand on Saturday.

Australia entered last week’s clash at Eden Park on the back of six consecutive unbeaten matches and with plenty of confidence. However, despite trailing just 17-14 at half-time, they struggled after the break as the All Blacks pulled away to secure a commanding 50-19 victory.

Fly-half Ben Donaldson has been ruled out of the return fixture at Stadium Australia in Sydney, the same venue where the two sides will meet during next year’s Rugby World Cup pool stage.

Kiss had several experienced options available, including Kurtley Beale, James O’Connor and Bernard Foley. Nevertheless, the Australian coach has opted to give rookie Declan Meredith the starting No. 10 jersey, with uncapped youngster Harry McLaughlin-Phillips named as his replacement on the bench.

“This is an opportunity for other guys to be feeling it, tasting what Test rugby is about,” Kiss told reporters when explaining his selection.

“Those boys (Beale, O’Connor and Foley) have been through the mill. We know what we can expect from them. They know what to expect in this environment.

“The other boys get a great chance just to learn what it’s all about. I’ve got a lot of faith in those boys that are there,” he added.

Meredith, who will make his fourth Test appearance, will reunite with ACT Brumbies teammate Ryan Lonergan in Australia’s halves combination.

Four Changes for the Wallabies

Meredith is one of four changes to Australia’s starting XV. Prop Aidan Ross has been selected ahead of Angus Bell, while fit-again hooker Josh Nasser replaces Brandon Paenga-Amosa.

With centre Len Ikitau unavailable, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii moves to outside centre to partner Isaac Henry in midfield. Meanwhile, Harry Potter comes into the starting side on the left wing.

Saturday’s encounter will be the final Test for both teams before they travel to Europe next month to conclude the Nations Championship. Both Kiss and New Zealand counterpart Dave Rennie face important selection decisions ahead of the tour.

All Blacks Dealing With Injury Concerns

Australia could benefit from several injury setbacks within the New Zealand squad.

Asafo Aumua, Anton Segner, Ethan Blackadder and Leroy Carter all picked up injuries last weekend, adding to an already lengthy absentee list that includes Richie Mo’unga, Ruben Love and Ardie Savea.

Their absence has created opportunities for less experienced players to feature in the match-day 23. Josh Moorby will start on the left wing, while Timoci Tavatavanawai and Xavier Numia have been named among the replacements.

Despite the injuries, New Zealand will be determined to maintain their standards after another dominant performance at Eden Park.

Star midfielder Jordie Barrett believes the experience gained by younger players will prove valuable as the team continues to develop.

“There’s a lot of young boys in this group that are getting good minutes and anytime we can spend playing against the Wallabies or touring, it’s just going to put us in better stead going forward,” Barrett said.

Barrett Demands Continued All Blacks Focus

New Zealand’s kicking game proved decisive in the first Test, allowing the All Blacks to gain territory and put Australia under sustained pressure. Scrum-half Cam Roigard played a key role in their aerial strategy, while Barrett also made a significant contribution under the high ball.

With New Zealand having already retained the Bledisloe Cup, Barrett wants his teammates to maintain their intensity rather than become complacent.

“Internally there’s some habits and standards and a legacy that demands the All Blacks to back up and represent the country,” he told reporters.

“There’s no trophy to play for, but our ambition and our goals haven’t really changed.”

Australia now face the challenge of responding to their heavy defeat, with Meredith’s selection representing a significant vote of confidence from Kiss as the Wallabies seek a much-needed victory over their long-time rivals.