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21 February, 2026, 5:56 am
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21 February, 2026, 5:56 am Central - 23°C Clouds

James O’Connor joins Wallabies squad ahead of Ireland Test, Skelton ruled out

James O’Connor joins Wallabies squad ahead of Ireland Test, Skelton ruled out

By Alipate Narawa
11/11/2025
[Image: rugby.co.au]

The Wallabies have been boosted by the return of Leicester Tigers flyhalf James O’Connor for the final fortnight of Tests against Ireland and England.

It comes as former skipper Will Skelton was ruled out with an ankle injury.

O’Connor linked up with the squad ahead of Sunday’s match with Ireland and will "help them prepare" after missing the first three games of the Spring Tour.

The 35-year-old signed a deal with the Premiership side towards the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season before bursting back onto the Wallabies scene during the Rugby Championship.

Originally called in for the British & Irish Lions tour, O’Connor delivered a match-winning performance against South Africa in Ellis Park, breaking a drought that lasted close to 60 years at the ground.

He featured in every game of the tournament, including starting against New Zealand in the opening Bledisloe Cup Test.

O’Connor adds further competition to the flyhalf position following Carter Gordon’s return from a quad complaint.

As for Skelton, he was initially expected to join the group, only to injure himself playing for La Rochelle.

The Wallabies also confirmed Darcy Swain will return home to Australia after serving as lock cover for the past fortnight.

Swain was brought into the squad as a result of injuries to Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (rib) and Josh Canham (concussion) in the win over Japan.

The Australians have arrived in Dublin ahead of a clash with the third-ranked Irish, who are coming off their own victory over the Brave Blossoms.

The Wallabies meet Ireland at 8.10am Sunday at International Rugby Union Stadium, Dublin.

FNRL
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