Australia Calls Up James O'Connor for Tests Against British & Irish Lions After Lolesio Injury

In a significant move, Australian coach Joe Schmidt has added experienced flyhalf James O'Connor to his lineup for the three-test series against the British & Irish Lions, responding to the injury of Noah Lolesio, who is set for neck surgery after suffering whiplash during last weekend's match against Fiji. At 35, O'Connor is getting another chance to compete against the Lions, having previously started in all three tests back in 2013, where Australia faced a 2-1 defeat.

Several players are making a comeback after injury; among them are powerful lock Will Skelton and loose forward Rob Valetini, both of whom missed the latest game due to calf issues. Despite a concussion sustained in the nail-biting win over Fiji, hooker Dave Porecki has also been included in the squad. Schmidt acknowledged the formidable strength and pace the Lions bring to the game, highlighting the challenges ahead for his team as they prepare for the series opener on July 19 in Brisbane.

Jake Gordon, who has been considered a potential captain, remains on the team but did not play against Fiji due to a hamstring strain, alongside scrumhalves Nic White and Tate McDermott. While number eight Harry Wilson had been leading the team recently, Schmidt expressed caution in naming a captain until it is clear that the chosen player is fit to lead.

Among the 36-man squad, only winger Corey Toole and flanker Nick Champion de Crespigny are uncapped players, fresh off their performances against the Lions in club competitions. O'Connor's recent success with the Canterbury Crusaders in Super Rugby Pacific has revitalized his career, although he is expected to serve primarily as a bench player, offering guidance to younger playmakers such as Ben Donaldson and Tom Lynagh.

Moreover, Schmidt has made a single adjustment by including Josh Canham to strengthen the second-row options, following an impressive showing against the Lions while playing for the Queensland Reds. Canham previously made his international debut in a challenging match against Argentina, which remains Australia's heaviest test loss. Following the Brisbane match, the Australian team will continue to face the Lions in Melbourne and Sydney over the subsequent weekends.