Wallabies bruiser Pete Samu and influential hooker Allan Alaalatoa are among the big inclusions in Australia’s 36-man squad for their Rugby Championship clashes against Argentina.

Samu returns to the Wallabies fold for the first time since 2023, replacing Langi Gleeson who is sidelined with a heel injury. The versatile back-rower recently rejoined the Waratahs after two seasons in France and will look to add to his 33 Test caps.

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Experienced prop Alaalatoa is also back to provide leadership, while flyhalf Tom Lynagh is back after missing the South African leg due to injury. Winger Harry Potter has recovered from a hamstring injury to rejoin the group, while Filipo Daugunu and Hamish Stewart are retained after covering injuries in South Africa.

Queensland lock Josh Canham is the only new face, replacing Will Skelton, who has returned to France with his availability for future Tests still under discussion.

The squad will assemble in Townsville ahead of Tests at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on 6 September and Sydney’s Allianz Stadium on 13 September.

Skelton out of TRC

Coach Joe Schmidt said: “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.

“Argentina have been in strong form this year with wins over the British & Irish Lions and New Zealand and we know they’ll be very tough to beat in Townsville.”

🦘 Wallabies squad for Tests against @lospumasuar as part of the Flight Centre Rugby Championship.

Find out more – https://t.co/yKr6bd5bvu pic.twitter.com/T39cK2HW49

— Wallabies (@wallabies) August 28, 2025

Forwards – Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Josh Canham, Nick Champion De Crespigny, Nick Frost, Tom Hooper, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Zane Nonggorr, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Billy Pollard, Tom Robertson, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Pete Samu, James Slipper, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson

Backs – Filipo Daugunu, Tane Edmed, Josh Flook, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Ryan Lonergan, Tom Lynagh, Tate McDermott, James O’Connor, Hunter Paisami, Harry Potter, Hamish Stewart, Joseph Suaalii, Corey Toole, Nic White

Unavailable due to injury: Charlie Cale, Massimo De Lutiis, Ben Donaldson, Matt Faessler, Langi Gleeson, Jake Gordon, Noah Lolesio, Dylan Pietsch, Luke Reimer, Tom Wright.

Photo: Mark Brake/Getty Images