Schmidt makes three changes for Wallabies farewell Test

Australia will host Italy in Perth on Saturday, July 18, in a match that will mark the final Test in charge for Wallabies head coach Joe Schmidt. The fixture, part of the Nations Championship, comes with Australia desperate to end a six-game losing streak and secure just their second win in their last 11 matches.

Schmidt has made three changes to his starting lineup for his farewell game. Rookie flyhalf Declan Meredith retains the starting role despite a challenging debut in last week's 42-26 loss to France, where Australia squandered a 21-12 halftime lead. Ben Donaldson, who has recovered from a calf injury, will provide cover from the bench. In the back row, Western Force openside flanker Carlo Tizzano earns a start in front of his home crowd, with Fraser McReight, who scored two tries against France, moving to the bench. The final change sees Harry Potter replace the injured Dylan Pietsch on the wing.

The selection decisions are influenced by fitness concerns, with Schmidt confirming Donaldson was managed through training this week and McReight experienced knee discomfort after the France match. The coach stated he is backing Meredith to rise to the occasion against Italy's...