The MCG will host a Lions-Wallabies Test for the first time tomorrow (Saturday). Photo: AFL
LIONS RUGBY WATCH
Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt has opted for a ‘bomb squad’ of his own for their must-win second rugby Test against the Lions in Melbourne tomorrow (Saturday, July 26).
Huge lock Will Skelton and blindside Rob Valetini are in the squad after they missed the first Test due to injury.
The reserves bench features six forwards to two backs, a 6-2 split otherwise known as a bomb squad.
Skelton and Valetini are likely to make the Wallabies more competitive at the breakdown especially with Fraser McReight and captain Harry Wilson completing the backrow.
Hooker Dave Porecki is the only other change to the starting line-up.
The backline is unchanged from the first Test as Schmidt keeps the faith with halves painting of Jake Gordon and Tom Lynagh.
On the bench, No. 8 Langi Gleeson returns alongside Jeremy Williams and Carlo Tizzano.
Tate McDermott and Ben Donaldson will cover the backline replacements.
Wallabies: James Slipper, David Porecki, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick Frost, Will Skelton, Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson (c), Jake Gordon, Tom Lynagh, Harry Potter, Len Ikitau, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Max Jorgensen and Tom Wright. Reserves: Billy Pollard, Angus Bell, Tom Robertson, Jeremy Williams, Langi Gleeson, Carlo Tizzano, Tate McDermott and Ben Donaldson.
LIONS SELECTIONS
For the Lions, Melbourne-born Sione Tuipolotu misses out as he reportedly battles hamstring injuries.
Irish centre and former Kiwi Bundee Aki returns to the midfield to add an extra physical presence while another former Kiwi, Jamison Gibson-Park and Finn Russell, resume their first Test halves partnership.
Owen Farrell, son of coach Andy, has been named on the bench after he joined the tour as an injury replacement.
Lions: Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Tadgh Furlong, Maro Itoje (c), Ollie Chessum, Tadgh Beirne, Tom Curry, Jack Conan, Jamison Gibson-Park, Finn Russell, James Lowe, Bundee Aki, Huw Jones, Tommy Freeman and Hugo Keenan. Bench: Ronan Kelleher, Ellis Genge, Will Stuart, James Ryan, Jac Morgan, Alex Mitchell, Owen Farrell and Blair Kinghorn.
