Kiss names first Wallabies squad, recalls Salakaia-Loto

New Wallabies head coach Les Kiss has named his first squad, recalling experienced lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and selecting uncapped Queensland Reds centre Isaac Henry for the upcoming two-Test series against Japan. The 34-player group, announced on July 23, 2026, will assemble in Sydney next week before departing for the opening match in Osaka on August 8, followed by a second Test in Townsville on August 15.

The squad marks the first official selection of Kiss's tenure, which began this week following the conclusion of the Super Rugby Pacific season and the departure of former coach Joe Schmidt. While Kiss was consulted on the squad for the recent July Nations Championship Tests, this selection carries his distinct imprint, most notably with the return of Salakaia-Loto. The 45-Test veteran, who was a standout for Kiss at the Reds this season, had been omitted from Schmidt's squads for the past year and instead played for the Barbarians and in Brisbane club rugby.

Salakaia-Loto's recall creates increased competition in the second row, where Jeremy Williams, Josh Canham, Miles Amatosero, and Lachlan Shaw have all been part of the recent setup. In the backs, the sole new face is...