Wallabies head coach Les Kiss has backed rookie Test playmaker Declan Meredith to steer the ship against the All Blacks in Sydney this week, with Harry McLaughlin-Phillips potentially making his debut off the bench.

McLaughlin-Phillips, 22, is fresh off leading the Western Force to a Super AUS title and has made the cut ahead of last week’s starter and a hero of last month’s win over South Africa, Ben Donaldson. Meredith meanwhile is just three Tests into his Wallabies career, having steered the team to wins over Japan and Italy after losing to France in his debut.

In addition to doubling down on fresh blood in the game-driving role, Kiss has looked to fortify his bench by moving star loosehead prop Angus Bell to an impact role, with former All Black Aidan Ross promoted to the starting side.

Isaac Henry takes the place of the injured Len Ikitau and links with Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in the midfield, with Harry Potter coming onto the left wing and Filipo Daugunu entering the matchday 23 at the end of the bench.

Josh Canham’s return to fitness also sees him join the bench alongside Carlo Tizzano and Kalani Thomas, who replace Nick Champion de Crespigny and Tate McDermott, respectively.

“We got a clear picture last weekend of where we need to be better,” Kiss said. “We’ve said all along we’ll continue to work hard and grow our game, and the squad has been impressive in the way they have prepared this week.

“This Saturday will be a great occasion with the Wallaroos and Sevens teams also playing in our own backyard.

“Playing our final Test on home soil for 2026 is a huge motivator, and we’re determined to put out a performance all Australians can be proud of.”

Wallabies team to play the All Blacks

1. Aidan Ross (8 Tests) – #994; Bond University
2. Josh Nasser (17 Tests) – #979; Easts Rugby (Brisbane)
3. Allan Alaalatoa (95 Tests) #896; West Harbour Juniors
4. Jeremy Williams (34 Tests) – #973; Wahroonga Tigers
5. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (49 Tests) – #914; Randwick Rugby
6. Rob Valetini (70 Tests) – #929; Harlequin Junior Rugby Club
7. Fraser McReight (48 Tests) – #937; Albany Creek Brumbies
8. Harry Wilson (c) (44 Tests) – #933; Gunnedah Red Devils
9. Ryan Lonergan (14 Tests) – #993; Tuggeranong Vikings
10. Declan Meredith (3 Tests) – #997; Barron Trinity Bulls
11. Harry Potter (17 Tests) – #989; Moorabbin Rams
12. Isaac Henry (5 Tests) – #999; Kenmore Bears
13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (26 Tests) – #988; The Kings School
14. Max Jorgensen (29 Tests) – #984; Balmain Wolves
15. Tom Wright (52 Tests) – #939; Clovelly Eagles

Substitutes

16. Billy Pollard (25 Tests) – #958; Lindfield Junior Rugby Club
17. Angus Bell (59 Tests) – #940; Hunters Hill Rugby Club
18. Massimo De Lutiis (4 Tests) – #1000; Surfers Paradise Dolphins
19. Josh Canham (8 Tests) – #987; Harlequin Junior Rugby Club
20. Carlo Tizzano (17 Tests) – #982; University of Western Australia
21. Kalani Thomas (2 Tests) – #995; Springfield Hawks
22. Harry McLaughlin-Phillips* – uncapped; Gunnedah Red Devils
23. Filipo Daugunu (24 Tests) – #931; Wests Bulldogs