Wallabies recall Isaac Henry as All Blacks reshuffle injury-hit backline

Australia have recalled Isaac Henry at outside centre and retained Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on the wing in their team announcement for the opening Bledisloe Cup Test. Rugby Australia confirmed on Thursday that Henry is the sole addition to the starting XV that beat South Africa in Perth, with the Wallabies due to face New Zealand at Eden Park on October 10.

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Henry, 27, comes into the midfield following Hunter Paisami's suspension. Len Ikitau will wear the number 12 jersey alongside him. According to ABC Sport, Ikitau has recovered from an ankle injury, while Henry is set for his fifth Test after making his debut against Japan in Osaka two months ago. Coach Les Kiss also worked with Henry at the Queensland Reds.

Australia have retained Ryan Lonergan and Ben Donaldson as their halfbacks, with Max Jorgensen and Tom Wright completing the back three alongside Suaalii. Captain Harry Wilson remains in the back row with Rob Valetini and Fraser McReight. Rugby Australia's announcement also confirmed a bench containing five forwards and three backs, including fly-half Declan Meredith, who can cover fullback, and replacement scrumhalf Tate McDermott.

ABC reported four changes among Australia's replacements, with Josh Nasser, Massimo De Lutiis, Nick Champion de Crespigny and Meredith coming in. Taniela Tupou and Tom Hooper have returned to their European clubs. The changes follow Australia's 42-38 victory over South Africa, while Kiss's record since taking over from Joe Schmidt stands at four wins and a draw.

New Zealand's announcement brought a more extensive reshuffle. AFP reported that Damian McKenzie moves from fullback to fly-half after Richie Mo'unga suffered a torn calf muscle. Mo'unga will miss both matches in the series, and Ruben Love is unavailable with an ankle injury. Beauden Barrett has been selected at fullback for his first start of the year, while Scott Barrett returns at lock for his first Test appearance of 2026.

AFP reported six personnel changes and two positional switches from New Zealand's last match against South Africa. Josh Lord partners Scott Barrett in the second row, with Wallace Sititi coming into the back row. Hooker Codie Taylor captains the side in the absence of the injured Ardie Savea, and Shannon Frizell has been recalled to the replacements.