Wallabies coach Les Kiss has named a largely revamped starting lineup for Saturday’s Test match against Japan in Osaka, making nine changes from the team that faced Italy in their previous fixture. Among the new starters is lock Miles Amatosero, who will line up at tight-head lock alongside Josh Canham. Kiss emphasized the importance of controlled aggression from Amatosero, whose physicality is seen as key to countering Japan’s formidable second-row pairing of Warner Dearns and Harry Hockings.

Amatosero, known for his natural intensity and previous disciplinary issues including an incident during pre-season involving teammate Angus Scott-Young, has worked on managing his temper. Kiss expressed confidence in Amatosero’s self-awareness and ability to use his aggression productively within the discipline required at Test level. “He’s a very self-aware man about that. And he’ll use his physicality properly,” Kiss said.

Japan’s forwards, featuring New Zealand-born Dearns and Australian-born Hockings, present a significant challenge, particularly in the expected humid conditions of Osaka. Kiss noted the impact of their physical presence in the pack, stating that their power gives Japan’s playmakers stable platform to launch attacks and supports their quick back three, which poses a threat on the edges. Managing this requires Australia to be direct and physical, particularly through the tight five forwards, with Amatosero’s role at the “tight end of the lock” position critical to establishing a solid platform.

In addition to Amatosero’s promotion, loosehead prop Aidan Ross has been handed his first Test start, and Isaac Henry is set for possible Test debut from the bench. The midfield has also been adjusted due to the absence of Len Ikitau, sidelined by an ankle injury. Hunter Paisami returns to start at inside centre alongside Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, while Henry provides cover as a replacement.

Kiss has also made strategic changes in the forwards, opting for a lock pairing of Amatosero and Canham despite improvements in Australia’s lineout during the July Nations Championship tests. Jeremy Williams will come off the bench, with hooker Josh Nasser returning from concussion to start, and Billy Pollard joining the replacements. Notably, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, who had been strong in the previous series, was omitted from the squad, and Fraser McReight resumes his position at openside flanker.

With the match expected to be played in slippery conditions, Kiss stressed the need for discipline and focus in the middle of the field to prevent costly turnovers. Australia will seek to contain Japan’s momentum and speed on the flanks by solidifying their forward platform and maintaining tight defensive structure throughout the game.