Donaldson, Ikitau named to start in second Argentina Test

Thu, Sep 3, 2026, 8:30 PM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Highlights from our clash with Argentina in The Flight Centre Series at Estadio 23 de Agosto, Argentina.

Western Force flyhalf Ben Donaldson will make his first start of the 2026 season against Argentina on Sunday as coach Les Kiss continues to switch his team around.

It comes with John Eales Medalist Len Ikitau cleared to return, with the Aussies hunting for their first away sweep of Argentina.

Watch every second of the Wallabies 2026 season live and on demand via Stan Sport.

Donaldson swaps with Carter Gordon, partnering Ryan Lonergan in the halves.

The move is one of several changes to the backline, including the return of centre pairing Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii and Ikitau.

Ikitau and Suaalii reunite their partnership in the midfield, having started together in 16 of the last 25 Tests.

Suaalii came off the bench in the win in Jujuy, with Ikitau making his return from an ankle injury.

Meanwhile, Daugunu is joined in the back three by Max Jorgensen and Tom Wright as Wright brings up 50 games in gold.

The changes continue in the forward pack as Harry Wilson re-takes his spot at number eight and the captaincy.

Experienced props Angus Bell and Taniela Tupou are also back in the run on side, linking with Billy Pollard.

Queensland Reds trio Josh Nasser, Aidan Ross and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto provide fresh legs on the bench alongside Charlie Cale.

The Reds connection continues with Kalani Thomas replacing Tate McDermott, with Gordon and Isaac Henry rounding out the matchday 23 in Mendoza.

“After a physical Test last week, we’ve brought in some fresh bodies alongside some existing combinations as we continue to look to build Test experience across the group," Kiss said.

“We’re expecting a strong response from Argentina on Saturday and we know we will need to keep stepping up our game in all areas.”

Wallabies team to play Argentina at Estadio Malvinas Argentinas in Mendoza on Sunday September 6 at 7:00am AEST

1. Angus Bell (56 Tests) - #940; Hunters Hill Rugby Club

2. Billy Pollard (23 Tests) - #958; Lindfield Junior Rugby Club

3. Taniela Tupou (72 Tests - #917; Brothers Rugby

4. Josh Canham (7 Tests) - #987; Harlequin Junior Rugby Club

5. Jeremy Williams (31 Tests) – #973; Wahroonga Tigers

6. Rob Valetini (67 Tests) - #929; Harlequin Junior Rugby Club

7. Fraser McReight (45 Tests) - #937; Albany Creek Brumbies

8. Harry Wilson (41 Tests) - #933; Gunnedah Red Devils

9. Ryan Lonergan (11 Tests) - #993; Tuggeranong Vikings

10. Ben Donaldson (24 Tests) - #962; Clovelly Eagles

11. Filipo Daugunu (23 Tests) - #931; Wests Bulldogs

12. Len Ikitau (53 Tests) - #944; Tuggeranong Vikings

13. Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii (23 Tests) - #988; The Kings School

14. Max Jorgensen (26 Tests) - #984; Balmain Wolves

15. Tom Wright (49 Tests) - #939; Clovelly Eagles Substitutes

16. Josh Nasser (15 Tests) - #979; Easts Rugby (Brisbane)

17. Aidan Ross (5 Tests) - #994; Bond University

18. Massimo De Lutiis (2 Tests) - #1000; Surfers Paradise Dolphins

19. Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (46 Tests) - #914; Randwick Rugby

20. Charlie Cale (5 Tests) - #976; Beecroft Junior Rugby Club

21. Kalani Thomas (1 Test) - #995; Springfield Hawks

22. Carter Gordon (12 Tests) - #967; Sunshine Coast Grammar School

23. Isaac Henry (3 Tests) - #999; Kenmore Bears

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