James O’Connor has been recalled to the Australia squad nearly three years after his last appearance for the Wallabies. The veteran fly-half has been named in the 36-man squad selected to face the British and Irish Lions, stepping in after first-choice playmaker Noah Lolesio was ruled out through injury.
Australia’s head coach, Joe Schmidt, faced a shortage of experience at fly-half and opted for the 35-year-old O’Connor, who recently won the Super Rugby title with the Crusaders. His selection comes ahead of more seasoned options like Bernard Foley and Kurtley Beale. Alongside O’Connor, Ben Donaldson and the relatively untested Tom Lynagh will cover the number 10 role in the lead-up to the opening Test in Brisbane on 19 July.
O’Connor is now on the verge of a unique milestone. Having started all three Tests against the Lions in 2013, he could become only the third Australian player to face the touring side in two separate series. The others are flanker George Smith, who achieved the feat in 2001 and 2013, and current prop James Slipper, who is also set to repeat the accomplishment this year, provided he remains fit.
Injury concerns still hang over several key players. Will Skelton, the towering second-rower, and Rob Valetini, a dominant force in the back row, have both been battling fitness issues but were included in the squad with the hope they will be ready in time for the first Test.
Taniela Tupou, the massive prop whose career has been disrupted by recurring injuries, has also been included despite his own doubts about his readiness. He is expected to move to a French club next season, but remains a part of the Wallabies’ plans for now, with hopes that he can rediscover the explosive form that once made him a standout performer.
The squad reflects a mix of experience and youthful promise, with Schmidt clearly aiming to build resilience and depth across all areas ahead of the high-stakes series. The British and Irish Lions, known for their physicality, depth, and attacking intensity, are expected to pose a significant challenge.
Schmidt expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity ahead and acknowledged the scale of the task. The Lions’ ability to combine power with pace and precision presents a formidable test, but there is optimism in the Australian camp that this group can rise to the occasion.
The 36-man squad comprises 20 forwards and 16 backs, combining established internationals with emerging talents. Among the forwards are seasoned players like James Slipper, Will Skelton, and Fraser McReight, while the backs feature exciting names such as Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Corey Toole, and Harry Potter.
With the opening Test set for 19 July in Brisbane, preparations are in full swing as Australia gears up to welcome the Lions for a series that promises high drama and intense competition.