Andrew Kellaway ruled out of First Bledisloe Test

Wallabies fullback Andrew Kellaway has been ruled out of Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup opener against the All Blacks in Auckland after suffering a calf strain.

The 29-year-old had stepped into the fullback role following Tom Wright’s season-ending ACL injury earlier in the Rugby Championship.

Kellaway’s setback comes just days after forward Rob Valetini was also ruled out with a calf strain. The injuries add to coach Joe Schmidt’s challenges as he prepares to name his side for the crucial fifth-round Rugby Championship clash.

With both Wright and Kellaway unavailable, Schmidt could turn to Max Jorgensen or Harry Potter. Jorgensen, the 21-year-old Waratahs back, has already made a strong impression with 15 Tests since debuting in 2024, including a dramatic late winner against England at Twickenham. P

Potter, who has five caps since debuting in 2024, is also in contention despite a recent hamstring injury.

Speaking ahead of the Eden Park showdown, Jorgensen said playing against New Zealand would mark a dream milestone.

"It's such a big game. Every game counts, and if given the opportunity this week at the play-in, it would be a dream come true," Jorgensen said.

"Yeah, it's definitely a challenge, but it's an exciting one.

"I think for our group, coming back off a couple of games as a team to get the opportunity to play at Eden Park against a team like the All Blacks, it's always cool.

"They're a world-class team, they've always been good and always will be."