Ikitau cleared for Bledisloe Cup opener as Wallabies build All Blacks midfield
Len Ikitau is cleared for Saturday's Bledisloe Cup opener after scans revealed only bone bruising.
The Wallabies received a major boost with Len Ikitau cleared for the Bledisloe Cup opener at Eden Park on Saturday. Ikitau left the field last month with what was feared to be a recurrence of his ankle injury, but scans revealed only bone bruising.
Ikitau took full part in Tuesday's training session in Auckland. Ikitau will return to the number 12 jersey and pair in midfield with Isaac Henry.
Hunter Paisami misses the match after a four-game suspension for a dangerous tackle. Mark Nawaqanitawase is also returning to rugby after two years in the NRL with Sydney, creating extra depth in the backline.
- Bledisloe Cup at Eden Park Saturday
- Match
- Number 12 jersey
- Position
- Isaac Henry
- Midfield partner
- 4 games for dangerous tackle
- Hunter Paisami ban
Why it mattersIkitau's return strengthens the Wallabies' midfield for a critical match against New Zealand and a key tune-up for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
AustraliaAustralian rugby fans get to see their top-ranked centres back together for a crucial rivalry match; the Wallabies' chances against the All Blacks improve with key players fit.
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