Australia vs. Fiji World Cup Team Update: Despite Injury, Captain Will Skelton Receives Approval from Eddie Jones

Will Skelton Named in Australia’s Team to Face Fiji

In a surprising turn of events, Captain Will Skelton has been included in Australia’s starting lineup for their upcoming World Cup match against Fiji. Despite undergoing scans for a calf injury, head coach Eddie Jones remains hopeful that Skelton will prove his fitness before Sunday’s Pool C clash in Saint-Etienne.

Australia Makes Changes Ahead of Crucial Match

The Australian team has also made some other key changes for the match against Fiji. Prop James Slipper replaces the injured Taniela Tupou and will become only the third Australian player to feature in four World Cups. Scrum-half Nic White comes in for Tate McDermott, who is currently undergoing a 12-day head injury assessment after suffering from a concussion during their opening victory over Georgia. Additionally, lock Nick Frost steps into Richie Arnold’s place to strengthen the team’s forward pack.

“At this stage, he is still part of the team,” Jones commented on Skelton. “He sustained a knock during training and is receiving additional medical attention as a precaution.”

Fiji Seeks Redemption After Narrow Loss Against Wales

Fiji enters this crucial matchup against Australia with redemption on their minds following their narrow defeat against Wales. Despite showcasing an impressive performance throughout most of the game, center Semi Radradra dropped the ball just short of scoring what could have been a match-winning try.

To bolster their chances of victory, Fiji’s head coach Simon Raiwalui has made some changes to their backline. Josua Tuisova replaces Radradra at inside center, while the latter moves to the left wing. This tactical rejig aims to exploit Australia’s defensive vulnerabilities and secure a much-needed win that would greatly enhance their chances of progressing further in the tournament.

Team Lineups

Australia: Donaldson; Nawaqanitawase, Petaia, Kerevi, Koroibete; Gordon, White; Bell, Porecki, Slipper, Frost, Skelton (capt), Hooper, McReight,Valetini.
Replacements: Uelese,Schoupp,Nonggorr,Arold,Peterman,Fines-Leleiwasa,Foketi,Vunivalu.

Fiji: Droasese; Wainiqolo,Nayacalevu(capt),Tuisova,Radradra; Tela,Kuruvoli,Mawi,
Matavesi ,Tagi,Nasilasila,Cirikidaveta, Tagitagivalu,Botia,Mata.