By Fatma Younis
Australia has handed a shock recall to veteran back Kurtley Beale, 37, for the upcoming Nations Championship, five years after his last Test appearance. The 95-cap Wallaby, who turns 38 in January, has been added to the squad as a replacement for Hunter Paisami, who withdrew for personal reasons.
Veteran back recalled after five-year absence
Beale last played for Australia against Wales in Cardiff in 2021 and was named in a squad in 2024 before an Achilles injury ruled him out. He could win his 96th cap against England at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, on Sunday 8 November, the Wallabies' first match of their autumn campaign.
Beale to provide cover in centres
The Western Force player is expected to primarily cover inside centre, though he can also play fly-half, full-back or on the wing. Head coach Les Kiss said Beale has been in great form for the Western Force in Super Rugby Pacific and Super Rugby AUS.
Kiss welcomes experience and versatility
“With Hunter’s unavailability we’re excited by what Kurtley can bring to the group,” Kiss said in a statement. “He’s got 95 caps worth of Test experience and while he will primarily cover inside centre, he has the versatility to play a number of positions across the backline.”
Additional call-ups for Wallabies
Former Northampton Saints wing James Ramm has also been called up after an impressive campaign with Northland in New Zealand's provincial championship. Scrum-half Kalani Thomas will join the group after his Australia A commitments, while Tate McDermott is expected to return home during November for the birth of his first child.
Upcoming Nations Championship fixtures
After facing England at Twickenham, Australia will play Scotland at Murrayfield and Wales in Cardiff before finals weekend in London later in November. The Wallabies depart for England on Saturday, with less than a year until the 2027 Rugby World Cup on home soil.
