Brief

Wallabies player ratings ahead of Eden Park Test against All Blacks

Les Kiss' Wallabies enter the Auckland clash with strong form, and a detailed rating of the squad is provided.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 10 Oct 2026 10:02:23 GMT

Les Kiss' Wallabies head to Eden Park on Saturday with confidence after an unbeaten series in Argentina and a win over the Springboks, according to a rating piece published by the Sydney Morning Herald on October 9, 2026.

What happened

The article lists individual ratings for 15 Wallabies players, scoring each on a ten‑point scale based on recent performances. Tom Wright, returning from an ACL injury, receives a 7/10, while 22‑year‑old Max Jorgensen tops the backline with a 9. Midfielders Isaac Henry and Joseph‑Aukuso Suaalii are rated 7 and 8 respectively. Ben Donaldson, Ryan Lonergan and captain Harry Wilson (c) each earn an 7‑8, reflecting a more assertive display against South Africa. Front‑row players Allan Alaalatoa and Brandon Paenga‑Amosa receive 8 and 7, and the second‑row duo Lukhan Salakaia‑Loto and Rob Valetini are rated 7 and 9, the latter praised as a powerhouse. The piece also notes that Valetini shone in the first Test against Argentina in Jujuy.

What the reports add

The rating highlights Max Jorgensen’s aerial ability against the Springboks and his status as a "brilliant" 22‑year‑old. It points out that Fraser McReight could benefit from All Blacks captain Ardie Savea’s injury at the breakdown. Jeremy Williams is described as a "lineout technician" now under pressure, and Allan Alaalatoa’s form revival is called one of the "untold stories" of Australian rugby.

What was said

The article quotes no external speakers; all commentary is the author’s assessment of player form.

How it came about

The Wallabies’ recent success, including a clean sweep in Argentina and a victory over South Africa, forms the backdrop for the ratings. Earlier this month, former All Blacks great Dan Carter urged the Wallabies to learn from their 2023 World Cup loss, emphasizing confidence ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup, a theme echoed in the team’s current optimism.

Key facts

Wallabies coach Les Kiss says the team is confident ahead of the Eden Park test. (smh.com.au)
Max Jorgensen receives the highest rating of 9 among Wallabies backs. (smh.com.au)
Rob Valetini is rated 9 and was outstanding in the first Test against Argentina. (smh.com.au)
Wallabies have an unbeaten series in Argentina and a win over the Springboks. (smh.com.au)
Fraser McReight may benefit from All Blacks captain Ardie Savea's injury at the breakdown. (smh.com.au)