Australia Welcomes Alaalatoa Back for Argentina Tests Amid Injury Crisis

Australia’s rugby team received a significant boost with the return of prop Allan Alaalatoa ahead of two crucial home Tests against Argentina. Alaalatoa had been sidelined due to a shoulder injury sustained during the British and Irish Lions series. His comeback comes at a critical time for the Wallabies, who are grappling with an extensive injury list.

Despite Alaalatoa’s return, the team faces notable absences. Winger Tom Wright is out for the remainder of the season after suffering a knee injury during last weekend’s 30-22 defeat to the Springboks in Cape Town. Wright’s injury, which occurred just minutes into the match, necessitates surgery. Additionally, players including Ben Donaldson, Jake Gordon, Noah Lolesio, and Dylan Pietsch are also unavailable due to various injuries.

Joe Schmidt, the Wallabies’ head coach, expressed both concern and optimism regarding the team’s situation. He acknowledged the challenges posed by injuries but emphasized the depth of the squad. “While it’s disappointing to lose some players in what was an attritional fortnight in South Africa, we’re pleased to be able to lean into the squad depth that we’re trying to create and welcome back some familiar faces to the group,” Schmidt stated.

Adding to the challenges, the team is without towering lock Will Skelton, who has returned to France to rejoin his club La Rochelle ahead of the Top 14 season. The absence of forwards Matt Faessler and Langi Gleeson has opened the door for Pete Samu, who has received his first call-up since 2023.

The Wallabies are set to face the Pumas in Townsville on September 6, 2023, before hosting them again in Sydney one week later. Schmidt highlighted Argentina’s formidable performance this year, noting their victories over both the British and Irish Lions and New Zealand. “We know they’ll be very tough to beat in Townsville,” he remarked, underscoring the challenge ahead.

As the Wallabies prepare to take on Argentina, the team’s resilience will be tested. The upcoming matches are not only crucial for the team’s standings in the Rugby Championship but also an opportunity for players to showcase their capabilities in the face of adversity. With Alaalatoa back in the lineup, fans will be eager to see how the team responds to the ongoing injury crisis and whether they can secure vital wins on home soil.