In their final test match of the year and desperately seeking their first win on their European tour, Australia have made significant changes to their lineup to face France this weekend. Head coach Joe Schmidt is playing his final cards before handing the reins to Les Kiss in 2026.

Carter Gordon's Return to the Opening

The most notable change is the return of Carter Gordon to fly-half. Having recovered from a thigh injury sustained in the defeat to Italy on November 8th, the former rugby league (Gold Coast Titans) player is preferred to James O'Connor, who started against Ireland. Aged 24, Gordon will earn his 10th cap and will be a key player in the attempt to revive a struggling Wallaby attack.

Key Returns on the Front Line

Schmidt has also strengthened his pack with the return of key players in the front row:

1. Taniela Tupou returns to his position as tighthead prop.
2. Billy Pollard is named in the starting lineup at hooker.

These players bring the experience and power needed to challenge the solid French scrum.

Other Symbolic Adjustments and Capes

Several other adjustments were made to the initial lineup:

1. Dylan Pietsch starts on the wing.
2. Nick Frost is in the second row, which moves flanker Rob Valetini to the bench.

The match will also be marked by symbolic events:

1. Angus Bell (prop) and Len Ikitau (centre) will celebrate their 50th cap .
2. Young scrum-half Kalani Thomas could make his first appearance if he comes on as a substitute.

The Wall of Statistics and Schmidt's Reaction

The stakes are high for the Wallabies, who are threatened with a tenth defeat in 2025 , which would be a historic record for losses in a single year. Despite this pressure, coach Joe Schmidt delivered a measured message:

"We're not going to dwell on the statistics, because we have no control over what is in the past."

The clash against the French national team will take place on Saturday at 9:10pm at the Stade de France.

📋 The Official Australian Team Composition

Job	Holders	Substitutes
Backs	Jorgensen, Potter, Sua'ali'i, Ikitau, Pietsch	Edmed, Daugunu
Hinge	C. Gordon (o), J. Gordon (m)	Thomas
Third Line	McReight, Wilson ( Cap ), Hooper	Valetini, Tizzano
Second Line	Frost, Williams	-
Front line	Tupou, Pollard, Bell	Faessler, Ross, Alaalatoa