Filipo Daugunu was parachuted into the Wallabies squad following significant injuries to several key stars in Cape Town, but it seems the stage is set for a triumphant return in gold.
After a strong return to the jersey in 2024, Daugunu picked up a red card against Georgia, before being forced off early in last year’s Rugby Championship opener against South Africa.
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However, the Reds' utility player has put the time away from the gold jersey to good use.
A strong season on his return from the Rebels saw him earn the Pilecki Medal winner as the Queensland Reds’ best of the 2025 season.
Combined with his re-signing with the Reds and Rugby Australia early this year, his decision to stay on Australian soil has proven the right one.
“It was a tough decision for me,” the 12-capped Wallaby said to reporters when asked about his decision to stay.
“For me to stay here in Australia, where I got my rugby start, was good.
“It was great for me to stay, and also for my baby who was on the way. This was one of my main reasons for me to stay.
“It's good to be back. I was in and out from the squad, but to be back here to this amazing group, I'm really proud.
“I've learned a lot from everyone and I know we trust everyone. If you have the time to play, everyone can do their job.
“I'm grateful to be back again.”
Daugunu provides several options for Joe Schmidt, having excelled in both the centres and on the wing for the Reds under Les Kiss.
With several players out, most notably Tom Wright, Schmidt may opt for consistency in the current set up, or turn to players with a record under the high ball; something the Pumas targeted against New Zealand in Buenos Aires.
“We know they're good on that, specifically on that,” Daugunu said of the Pumas.
“But for us, we just need to be ourselves and to prepare. We saw last week how they beat New Zealand, [and how they beat] the Lions.
“We know they’re going to be a tough team to beat.
“For us as a group, we're going to prepare really well and look forward to the game. “
