Arabic version: اختبار عمق خيارات اختيار الوالابيز بعد الفوز على اليابان

According to The Guardian, Australia’s 56-17 return Test victory over Japan in Townsville offered Les Kiss his most promising Wallabies performance in 12 months while creating difficult selection decisions. The Wallabies scored five unanswered tries in the second half, and the coach now has eight matches this year before the run to next October’s World Cup.

Centre Isaac Henry made an impact on his first start in gold. The 27-year-old broke through Japan’s line to earn the field position that led to Australia’s first try and was hard to tackle. Henry and Hunter Paisami started with regular midfield pair Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii and Len Ikitau absent, leaving Kiss to consider how the apparent depth at centre can fit together.

Carlo Tizzano underlined Australia’s options at openside flanker with three takeaways. Kiss used Fraser McReight alongside Tizzano during the second half, producing a mobile pack with strong turnover potential. Rob Valetini, described as Australia’s best player, is usually used at blindside flanker or No 8, while captain Harry Wilson has settled at No 8.

Charlie Cale also strengthened the case for flexibility. Making his Wallabies starting debut at blindside flanker, the 25-year-old scored a late try and moved to No 8 for the final 15 minutes, with Wilson shifting into lock. Kiss said he wanted to build depth in what players can do and where they can play, while acknowledging that Test rugby presents different challenges.

Prop Massimo de Lutiis became the 1,000th player capped by the Wallabies when he entered the match and marked the occasion with a try. His score was one of six by Australian front-rowers, although Japan’s front row conceded roughly 60kg to its opponents. Carter Gordon impressed on his return at five-eighth, while Japan’s Ryunosuke Ito was highlighted as a player capable of inspiring a rugby nation.