Schmidt backs youth as O'Connor misses out on Wallabies squad

Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt has confirmed his 36-man squad for the July Test against Fiji, with veteran playmaker James O’Connor a notable omission.

Despite his form and experience, O’Connor has missed the cut as Schmidt instead prioritises long-term investment in emerging fly-half talent.

“We’ve invested in three guys in that [No.] 10 spot, and we felt… we’re going to keep investing in those guys,” Schmidt said.

The trio of Noah Lolesio, Ben Donaldson, and Tom Lynagh have been retained as the primary options at fly-half.

All three have been involved in Wallabies camps earlier this year and are seen as core to Schmidt’s rebuild ahead of the British & Irish Lions tour in 2025 and beyond.

“His [O’Connor’s] experience, his skill set, a little bit of versatility — all those things were positive. But at the same time, we felt trying to balance things up… we wouldn’t interrupt that investment in the three guys.”

O’Connor, 34, currently playing for the Crusaders, has amassed 64 caps and offers proven experience in high-pressure matches.

However, Schmidt’s comments suggest a decisive shift towards building cohesion and consistency among the next generation.

The squad includes just two uncapped players — back-rower Nick Champion de Crespigny and winger Corey Toole. Schmidt emphasised that selection followed “a lot of healthy, robust discussion,” with the coaching staff prioritising alignment and readiness.

“We want to work hard and we want to connect well. You can’t hit the ground running if you don’t know the direction you’re going.”

Only one overseas-based player, Will Skelton, has been included — reinforcing Schmidt’s desire for a domestically centred, tightly integrated group.

Australia’s clash with Fiji in Newcastle on July 6 will be a critical assessment point for those hoping to feature in the high-profile Lions series.

Australia squad:

Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Angus Bell, Nick Champion De Crespigny, Matt Faessler, Nick Frost, Langi Gleeson, Tom Hooper, Fraser McReight, Zane Nonggorr, Billy Pollard, David Porecki, Tom Robertson, Will Skelton, James Slipper, Darcy Swain, Carlo Tizzano, Taniela Tupou, Rob Valetini, Jeremy Williams, Harry Wilson

Backs: Filipo Daugunu, Ben Donaldson, Jake Gordon, Len Ikitau, Max Jorgensen, Andrew Kellaway, Noah Lolesio, Tom Lynagh, Tate McDermott, Hunter Paisami, Dylan Pietsch, Harry Potter, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Corey Toole, Nic White, Tom Wright