The Albany Gazette - Schmidt confident sidelined Wallabies' trio will be fit for Lions

Flanker Valetini -- arguably Australia's best player -- and giant lock Skelton are both reportedly battling calf issues while scrum-half Gordon has a hamstring niggle.

The first Test against the Lions in Brisbane is two weeks away, and Schmidt said there was nothing to worry about.

"They're doing great. Will and Bobby, they trained well, albeit not with the side, but they're hitting some good speeds and their movement's good," he said ahead of the clash with Fiji in Newcastle on Sunday.

"Jake trained with the side today, so he's very close. We've got Tate (McDermott) and Nic [White], so we're not desperate around nine anyway.

"But I'd be very confident all three of those guys will be ready to train at the start of the week for that lead-in to the British and Irish Lions' first Test."

In Skelton's absence, Nick Frost and Jeremy Williams reignite their second-row partnership.

Harry Wilson has retained the captain's armband and will direct operations from the back of the scrum with Fraser McReight and Langi Gleeson on flanker duties.

Former skipper Dave Porecki, meanwhile, will make his first start for Australia since the 2023 World Cup when he beds down in an experienced front row alongside veterans James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa.

It marks a remarkable comeback for the 32-year-old hooker, who was sidelined for most of 2024 with a bad Achilles issue after leading the side at the tournament in France.

McDermott will start as scrum-half in place of Gordon with White on the bench and Noah Lolesio at flyhalf.

The ever-consistent Len Ikitau partners dynamic Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii in midfield, while Max Jorgensen returns from an ankle injury on the left wing, Harry Potter is on the right wing and Tom Wright at fullback.

They will face a Fiji side with fresh memories of their stunning 22-15 upset of the Wallabies at the World Cup.

Skippered by hooker Tevita Ikanivere, their starting XV features seven Fijian Drua players, four who ply their trade in France and another four with English clubs.

"They'll be just another Wallabies team that's prepared really well -- they've got a good coaching group, and they’ll bring the intensity," said Fiji's Australian coach Mick Byrne.

"I'm not sure they'll have their eye on two years ago, I think they'll be focused on Sunday's Test and we'll be ready for that."

Australia (15-1):

Tom Wright; Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen; Noah Lolesio, Tate McDermott; Harry Wilson (capt), Fraser McReight, Langi Gleeson; Jeremy Williams, Nick Frost; Allan Alaalatoa, David Porecki, James Slipper

Replacements: Billy Pollard, Angus Bell, Zane Nonggorr, Tom Hooper, Carlo Tizzano, Nic White, Ben Donaldson, Filipo Daugunu

Fiji (15-1):

Salesi Rayasi; Kalaveti Ravouvou, Iosefo Baleiwairiki, Josua Tuisova, Jiuta Wainiqolo; Caleb Muntz, Simione Kuruvoli; Viliame Mata, Elia Canakaivata, Lekima Tagitagivalu; Temo Mayanavanua, Isoa Nasilasila; Peni Ravai, Tevita Ikanivere (capt), Eroni Mawi

Replacememts: Sam Matavesi, Haereiti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Mesake Vocevoce, Albert Tuisue, Philip Baselala, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Sireli Maqala

(R.White--TAG)