‘We got humbled’: Wallabies searching for Argentina first as refreshed Wilson backs rotation plans

Sat, Sep 5, 2026, 12:22 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Harry Wilson believes the continual rotation under coach Les Kiss will deliver results in the long term. Photo: Getty Images

Wallabies captain Harry Wilson has backed the continual squad turnover under coach Les Kiss as they look to make history in Mendoza.

No Australian team has ever won a multi-Test series in Argentina, dating back to 1979, with the sides trading wins throughout their history.

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Four of the last five multi-game trips to Argentina have ended in tied results, with Los Pumas claiming a 1 1/2-1/2 series win in 1987.

This trend has continued throughout the rivalry, with the last six games between the two sides producing different winners.

The Wallabies are entering Sunday’s contest fresh off a 27-21 victory in Jujuy but Wilson knows the dangers of a wounded Argentina, skippering the side in their 67-27 loss in Santa Fe two years ago.

“That was a really tough day, obviously. We had a great test win in the first one and then we definitely got humbled in that second test," he reflected.

“The Pumas were fired up to fight back, and gee whiz, they did, and I guess we're leaning into that experience from the past.

“We expect nothing different of them coming out with a lot of motivation, a lot of passion and wanting to come out and reverse the results.”

Wilson missed the opening Test victory, given a rare Test off as coach Kiss continues to test the depth.

He is one of several fresh faces returning for the Wallabies, including centre pairing Len Ikitau and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, along with star prop Taniela Tupou.

"I had an awareness it was coming. Les and the coaches had a plan for us all and I guess I was, when he tapped me on the shoulder, I was completely fine with it,” Wilson said.

“All the boys have had a little rest and freshened up, and I really hope it helps us in the upcoming test matches, having everyone a little bit fresher than probably in the past. 

“He's very clear with it. He explains why and explains a little bit of the bigger picture…so far we've been winning, rotating our squad and which is a great sign for us. It builds a lot of depth and the more depth we have in Australian rugby, the better the Wallabies are going to perform.”

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