Len Ikitau fit for Australia as Isaac Henry gets Bledisloe Cup start

Len Ikitau has overcome an ankle injury to start for Australia against New Zealand in Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup opener at Eden Park.

The centre limped off during last month’s victory over South Africa but has been cleared to partner Isaac Henry in midfield.

Henry replaces the suspended Hunter Paisami in the only change to Australia’s starting XV from the 42-38 win over the Springboks.

Len Ikitau cleared after ankle concern

Wallabies coach Les Kiss said careful management had helped Ikitau recover.

“We managed it smartly in the early stages, which gave it a chance to heal properly,” Kiss told Rugby Australia.

Henry starts at outside centre, while Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii remains on the wing alongside Max Jorgensen. Tom Wright continues at full-back.

Ryan Lonergan and Ben Donaldson retain their places at scrum-half and fly-half.

Australia change bench balance

Kiss has selected five forwards and three backs among the replacements, with Declan Meredith providing fly-half cover.

Massimo De Lutiis returns in place of Taniela Tupou, who has rejoined his club in France. Josh Nasser, Aidan Ross, Lachlan Shaw and Nick Champion de Crespigny complete the forward replacements.

Tate McDermott and Harry Potter join Meredith as the backline options.

Australia are chasing their first victory at Eden Park since 1986 as they attempt to end New Zealand’s long hold on the trophy.

The match kicks off at 7.10am BST on Saturday 10 October. Read our analysis of Australia’s Bledisloe Cup challenge against former coach Dave Rennie.