Rob Valetini and Will Skelton have both been named in Australia’s starting lineup for the second Test against the British and Irish Lions.

The Wallabies duo missed the first Test in Brisbane, which the Lions won 27-19, due to calf injuries.

Melbourne-born Valetini will help provide extra physical presence alongside Skelton for the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Lions captain Maro Itoje played alongside Skelton for Saracens and believes he will offer a different challenge for the touring team.

“He is a fantastic player and a talisman for any side he plays in. He adds a sense of dynamism, size and power to the team,” Itoje said.

“Due to the size of him and his strengths, Will presents different challenges to your traditional lock.”

 Joe speaks about Will Skelton's influence in the squad.

 British & Irish Lions
 Saturday 26 July | 7:45pm AEST
MCG, Melbourne
 https://t.co/FkBweiDLXn#Wallabies #LionsTour2025 pic.twitter.com/TYvMaqvFGO

— Wallabies (@wallabies) July 24, 2025

Meanwhile, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii starts in the midfield and Dave Porecki at hooker, while the backline remains unchanged.

Fraser McReight also retains his place in the starting lineup for the Wallabies. He won three turnovers in last weekend’s opening Test, the second time he’s won as many as three in a game for Australia after winning four against Andy Farrell’s Ireland side last November.

No Tier 1 player has won as many jackal turnovers as McReight since the beginning of 2024 (14).

Australia head coach Joe Schmidt believes his side are better prepared for the second Test as they look to level the series.

“The squad has recovered well after a very physical first Test and the week's preparation here in Melbourne has allowed us a bit more time together,” said Schmidt.

“We took some confidence from the second half last week, but we know we'll need to improve further against a Lions team that will bring plenty of fire to the contest on Saturday night.”

Australia team in full: Tom Wright, Max Jorgensen, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Lenn Ikitau, Harry Potter, Tom Lynagh, Jake Gordon; James Slipper, David Porecki, Allan Alaalatoa, Nick Frost, Will Skelton, Rob Valetini, Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson (captain).

Replacements: Billy Pollard, Angus Bell, Tom Robertson, Jeremy Williams, Langi Gleeson, Carlo Tizzano, Tate McDermott, Ben Donaldson.