The Wallabies are set for a pivotal clash against Japan in Tokyo, with Nick Champion de Crespigny stepping up as the 92nd national captain in just his third Test, signaling a strategic overhaul by coach Joe Schmidt ahead of a challenging end-of-year tour.
In a significant announcement from Rugby Australia, Nick Champion de Crespigny, Wallaby number 991, has been named the 92nd captain of Australia. The Western Force back-rower will lead the Wallabies against Japan in Tokyo on Saturday, October 25, 2025, in what will be only his third Test appearance. This historic match, the Wallabies’ first-ever Test against Japan in Tokyo, kicks off a demanding five-consecutive-match end-of-year tour.
Schmidt’s Strategic Overhaul and Leadership for the Future
The appointment of Champion de Crespigny, a Canberra Grammar School product, highlights coach Joe Schmidt’s intention to assess the depth and leadership capabilities within the squad. With regular skipper Harry Wilson selected as back-row cover on the bench, this decision provides de Crespigny with a crucial opportunity to stamp his authority on the team. He follows in the footsteps of former Western Force stalwarts such as Nathan Sharpe and David Pocock to captain the Wallabies, underscoring the trust placed in his abilities despite his relatively young international career.
Schmidt emphasized the importance of the initial get-together and acclimatization. “It was great to get the group back together late last week in Sydney, and to welcome in a couple of new faces,” Schmidt stated. “The players have acclimatized well here in Tokyo and the whole squad is conscious of the threat the Brave Blossoms pose. They play hard and fast and are very tough to beat, especially at home.”
Key Selections and Promising Debuts
The starting lineup sees several notable changes and significant opportunities for players. In the back row, Champion de Crespigny will link with Western Force teammate Carlo Tizzano and number eight Rob Valetini. The front row features Zane Nong Gorr earning his first Test start in his 17th appearance for his country, alongside Angus Bell and Josh Nasser. The starting lock pairing will be Lukhan Salakaia-Loto and Jeremy Williams.
The backline also sees a revamp, with Wiradjuri man Dylan Pietsch returning from a jaw fracture to start on the left wing. Fellow Olympian Corey Toole is selected on the right edge, and Andrew Kellaway returns from injury at fullback to complete the back three. The midfield sees a familiar combination with Reds pair Hunter Paisami and Josh Flook, while NSW Waratahs teammates Jake Gordon and Tane Edmed start in the halves for the second straight Test.
On the bench, Aidan Ross has the potential to become just the fifth man to represent both Australia and New Zealand in Test rugby, named as a likely debutant at loosehead prop. He joins Brumbies hooker Billy Pollard and Force tighthead Tom Robertson as the substitute front row. After impressing in Australia A’s win over Japan XV last weekend, Josh Canham and Hamish Stewart have been named for their first Tests of 2025 as replacement lock and playmaker, respectively. Schmidt opted to retain Hamish Stewart as backup flyhalf, resisting calls to immediately bring Carter Gordon back into the squad following his return from the National Rugby League, as reported by AP News.
Six Western Force players were named in the squad, including captain Nick Champion de Crespigny, Carlo Tizzano, and Dylan Pietsch in the starting XV, with Aidan Ross and Tom Robertson among the reserves.
Wallabies Team to Play Japan (National Stadium, Tokyo – October 25, 2:50 pm JST / 4:50 pm AEST):
- Angus Bell (44 Tests)
- Josh Nasser (8 Tests)
- Zane Nong Gorr (16 Tests)
- Jeremy Williams (20 Tests)
- Lukhan Salakaia-Loto (43 Tests)
- Nick Champion de Crespigny (c) (2 Tests)
- Carlo Tizzano (11 Tests)
- Rob Valetini (57 Tests)
- Jake Gordon (32 Tests)
- Tane Edmed (4 Tests)
- Dylan Pietsch (7 Tests)
- Hunter Paisami (32 Tests)
- Josh Flook (5 Tests)
- Corey Toole (4 Tests)
- Andrew Kellaway (45 Tests)
Substitutes:
- Billy Pollard (16 Tests)
- Aidan Ross * (Uncapped)
- Tom Robertson (36 Tests)
- Josh Canham (1 Test)
- Harry Wilson (31 Tests)
- Ryan Lonergan (2 Tests)
- Hamish Stewart (2 Tests)
- Filipo Daugunu (15 Tests)
Recent Form and Upcoming Tour Challenges
The Wallabies enter this Test following a challenging Rugby Championship campaign. Their last match saw them fall to New Zealand 28-24 on October 4, a result that marked the All Blacks’ 11th consecutive win over Australia. This recent history sets a determined tone for the Wallabies as they seek to build momentum. AP News detailed the All Blacks’ dominance in this long-standing rivalry.
Japan, conversely, will be looking to bounce back after losing to Fiji in the final of the Pacific Nations Cup on September 20 in Salt Lake City, Utah, as reported by AP News. Playing at home, the Brave Blossoms are known for their fast-paced and resilient style, making them a formidable opponent, as highlighted by coach Schmidt.
Following the Tokyo clash, the Wallabies will embark on a rigorous European tour:
- Wallabies v England at Allianz Stadium, London (Sunday, November 2, 2:10 am AEST)
- Wallabies v Italy at Bluenergy Stadium, Udine (Sunday, November 9, 4:40 am AEST)
- Wallabies v Ireland at Aviva Stadium, Dublin (Sunday, November 16, 7:10 am AEST)
- Wallabies v France at Stade de France, Paris (Sunday, November 23, 7:10 am AEST)
Implications for the Fan Community
The appointment of Champion de Crespigny has sparked considerable discussion within the fan community. The decision to elevate a player with only two prior Test caps to the captaincy speaks volumes about Schmidt’s long-term vision and his desire to cultivate new leaders. Fans are eager to see how this overhauled squad performs, particularly with seasoned players like Joseph-Aukuso Sua’ali’i and Max Jorgensen being rested, allowing a deeper look into the Wallabies’ emerging talent.
The end-of-year tour represents a critical period for the Wallabies, providing a platform for new combinations to gel and for Schmidt to fine-tune strategies ahead of future international campaigns. The Japan Test, in particular, will be under intense scrutiny as it sets the tone for a challenging tour that could shape the Wallabies’ identity for years to come.
