Pete Samu returns to Australia squad ahead of Argentina Tests

The Wallabies have confirmed squad changes for their upcoming Rugby Championship matches against Argentina, with veteran back-rower Pete Samu returning to the setup for the first time since 2023.

Samu, now 33, has been recalled to replace Langi Gleeson, who is sidelined with a heel injury. Having recently joined the NSW Waratahs after two seasons in France with Bordeaux, Samu brings 33 Test caps of valuable experience back into the fold.

Head coach Joe Schmidt also welcomed the return of prop Allan Alaalatoa, fly-half Tom Lynagh, and winger Harry Potter, all recovering from recent injuries.

However, the squad continues to be hit by setbacks with Tom Wright, Jake Gordon, Noah Lolesio, Dylan Pietsch, Matt Faessler, and Ben Donaldson all unavailable.

In the forwards, Queensland lock Josh Canham has been named as a new inclusion, replacing Will Skelton, who has returned to France to join La Rochelle. Discussions are ongoing about Skelton’s possible return for future Tests.

Veteran playmaker James O’Connor, who started at fly-half in South Africa, remains in the squad and will compete with Lynagh for the No.10 jersey when the Wallabies face Argentina in Townsville on September 6, followed by their second clash in Sydney on September 13.

Captain Harry Wilson also returns after missing the defeat in Cape Town, while halfback Nic White has postponed his retirement to provide further experience.

Australia squad: 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, 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-Aukuso Suaalii, Corey Toole, Nic White