Wallabies given Ikitau boost as star centre cleared for Bledisloe opener

October 08, 2026
544
Ultimate Rugby

Wallabies centre Len Ikitau has been cleared of injury to start in Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup opener against the All Blacks at Auckland’s Eden Park.

Ikitau limped off with an ankle concern in last month’s win over the Springboks but has overcome the knock to partner Isaac Henry in the midfield for the clash.

"We managed it smartly in the early stages, which gave it a chance to heal properly," coach Les Kiss said.

"There was no structural damage as such, but it was a pretty bad bruise in there. He's done everything right to give himself a chance to play and be part of this one."

Henry’s inclusion is the lone change from the starting side that defeated the world champions in Perth, replacing the suspended Hunter Paisami.

The Queenslander debuted as Wallaby #999 in Japan and is set for his third Test start.

The starting pack remains unchanged, with Lukhan Salakaia-Loto retaining his spot in the second row as Josh Canham (hamstring) remains sidelined.

Coach Les Kiss has tinkered with his bench, reverting back to a 5-3 split.

Josh Nasser and Massimo De Lutiis form an all-Reds finishing front row alongside Aidan Ross, while Nick Champion de Crespigny replaces Tom Hooper (return to England).

For Ross, it's the first time the former All Black will face his old side since switching to Australia in 2025.

Declan Meredith is the new face added to the backs replacements, set for his first Bledisloe Cup appearance.

He is one of several set for their first match in the trans-Tasman rivalry alongside Ross, De Lutiis, Henry and Brumbies teammate Lachlan Shaw.

The Wallabies are gunning for their first win over the All Blacks since 2020, out to end a drought at Eden Park that extends to 1986.

"Keeping consistency in the starting side gives us a solid foundation, while adding some freshness on the bench will provide energy late in the game," Kiss said.

“There aren’t many tougher challenges than playing New Zealand at Eden Park, but it’s one we’re excited by and know that we will need to be at our best in all aspects of our game."

Wallabies team to play New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday October 10 at 5:10pm AEDT

1. Angus Bell (58 Tests) - #940; Hunters Hill Rugby Club

2. Brandon Paenga-Amosa (31 Tests) - #918; Southern Districts

3. Allan Alaalatoa (94 Tests) #896; West Harbour Juniors

4. Jeremy Williams (33 Tests) – #973; Wahroonga Tigers

5. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (48 Tests) - #914; Randwick Rugby

6. Rob Valetini (69 Tests) - #929; Harlequin Junior Rugby Club

7. Fraser McReight (47 Tests) - #937; Albany Creek Brumbies

8. Harry Wilson (c) (43 Tests) - #933; Gunnedah Red Devils

9. Ryan Lonergan (13 Tests) - #993; Tuggeranong Vikings

10. Ben Donaldson (26 Tests) - #962; Clovelly Eagles

11. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (25 Tests) - #988; The Kings School