Carter Gordon set for Wallabies return as Joe Schmidt names squad

Australia head coach Joe Schmidt has confirmed Carter Gordon’s return to rugby union, with the 24-year-old fly-half included in the Wallabies squad for the upcoming November tour.

Gordon, who briefly switched codes to rugby league with the Gold Coast Titans, has rejoined Queensland Reds under Les Kiss and is now back in contention for international duty.

The Wallabies will open their tour in Japan on October 25 before facing Ireland in Dublin on November 15, where they will meet Lions coach Andy Farrell.

Overseas-based players Will Skelton, Len Ikitau and James O’Connor have also been named in the 34-man squad.

Gordon, capped eight times, started at fly-half during Australia’s Rugby World Cup campaign but fell out of favour during Eddie Jones’ tenure. His return offers a timely boost as Schmidt looks to stabilise the playmaking role.

Meanwhile, Tom Lynagh has been left out of the squad as he continues to recover from concussion issues. Schmidt said the decision was made with a “long-term” view to ensure the 22-year-old regains full fitness.

Australia squad: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Josh Canham, Nick Champion De Crespigny, Matt Faessler, Nick Frost, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Zane Nonggorr, Billy Pollard, Tom Robertson, Aidan Ross, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Pete Samu, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson, Filipo Daugunu, Tane Edmed, Josh Flook, Carter Gordon, Jake Gordon, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Ryan Lonergan, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Hamish Stewart, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Kalani Thomas, Corey Toole.