James Slipper returns for Wallabies' Nations Championship Tests

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 19, 2026, 1:30 AM

Last updated Jun 19, 2026

James Slipper returns for Wallabies' Nations Championship Tests

Summary

James Slipper has come out of retirement to join the Wallabies for the upcoming Nations Championship Tests next month in Australia. The veteran prop is among four players, including uncapped trio Declan Meredith, Lachlan Shaw, and Miles Amatosero, named in the squad to potentially face Ireland. At 37, Slipper could surpass Sam Whitelock to become the second most-capped player in rugby history. His return addresses the needs of coach Joe Schmidt following recent challenges in the squad.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Key Details

•James Slipper returns after retiring last November.
•Slipper could become second most-capped player in rugby history.
•Uncapped players included in the squad for potential debuts.
•Tests against Ireland scheduled for next month.

Latest Updates

1:30 AMThe Guardian Sport — James Slipper answers SOS for coach Joe Schmidt’s last three Wallabies Tests

What they're saying

"
Veteran prop out of retirement for Nations Championship Tests Three uncapped players in line for potential debuts against Ireland Veteran prop James Slipper and uncapped trio Declan Meredith, Lachlan Shaw and Miles Amatosero have all been included in the Wallabies squad for next month’s Nations Championship Tests in Australia. After retiring last November, 37-year-old Slipper could surpass All Blacks great Sam Whitelock as rugby’s second most-capped player in history after answering an SOS call from coach Joe Schmidt. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Australian Associated Press

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