Jock Campbell Returns to Wallabies After 1,316-Day Exile to Face Ireland

Jock Campbell will start at fullback for Australia against Ireland in the opening round of the Nations Championship on Saturday, marking his first Test appearance since November 2022. The 29-year-old last played for the Wallabies in a 28-27 loss to Italy in Florence, which was his fourth and most recent cap.

Campbell's Return After 1,316 Days

Campbell has been in impressive form during the Super Rugby season, earning a recall to the starting XV. His return ends a 1,316-day absence from international rugby. Coach Joe Schmidt expressed confidence in the fullback, stating: "Jock has been training well and deserves this opportunity."

James Slipper Ends Retirement

Veteran prop James Slipper, Australia's most-capped Test player, has been named as a replacement loosehead prop, confirming his return from retirement. Slipper, 35, last played for the Wallabies in 2023 but decided to come back for the new competition.

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Other Key Changes

Centre Len Ikitau, flanker Tom Hooper, and props Angus Bell and Taniela Tupou return to the squad after playing club rugby in Europe. Flyhalf Carter Gordon and scrumhalf Ryan Lonergan will start in the halves, with Ben Donaldson and Tate McDermott on the bench. Lock Lachlan Shaw is among the replacements and could make his Test debut.

Captaincy and Opposition

Loose forward Harry Wilson retains the captaincy for the match at Allianz Stadium in Sydney. Ireland, ranked third in the world, provide a stern challenge. "The group has reconnected quickly and we’ve worked hard over the past week to prepare as best we can for what is an exciting challenge against the number three team in world rugby," said Schmidt.