Les Kiss picks Lukhan Salakaia-Loto in first Wallabies squad; Isaac Henry earns maiden call-up

Lukhan Salakaia-Loto has been recalled to the Wallabies in the first squad named by coach Les Kiss, while Isaac Henry has received his inaugural Australia selection for the two-Test series against Japan. The squad announcement marks Kiss’s opening selection as the newly-installed head coach.

Kiss unveiled the squad on 23 July 2026, turning to experienced forwards and fresh faces alike for the upcoming home Tests with Japan. Salakaia-Loto returns after a standout Super Rugby Pacific campaign that led to his inclusion in the competition’s team of the year. The lock, who has been a key figure for the Queensland Reds this season, was described as a powerful, crash-and-bash presence in the pack. Isaac Henry’s call-up represents his first opportunity to wear the green and gold at Test level.

Salakaia-Loto’s reappearance in the national group comes after a season spent providing consistent service to Kiss at the Reds, a relationship that featured prominently in the selection conversation. His selection follows recognition by Super Rugby Pacific voters and selectors, who placed him in the team of the year. That accolade underlined the form that prompted Kiss to bring him back into the international fold immediately upon taking charge.

Isaac Henry’s elevation to the squad is the first international call-up of his career and comes specifically for the two-Test series against Japan. The selection gives Henry the chance to make his Test debut during the pair of matches scheduled with the Japanese national side. For a player earning a maiden call, inclusion in a home series presents a timely opening to stake a claim for future squads.

Kiss’s initial squad combines players with recent domestic acclaim and newcomers breaking into Test consideration, reflecting the immediate choices available to the coach. The inclusion of a Super Rugby Pacific team-of-the-year forward and a first-time international call are the most prominent points from this list. The selections were announced as part of the build-up to the Japan series, which will test both established performers and those stepping up to the international stage.

The Wallabies’ selection for the two-Test Japan series confirms the squad that Kiss will work with in his opening international window. With Salakaia-Loto back in the ranks and Henry preparing for his first call-up, the roster sets the platform for the upcoming matches against Japan. The squad announcement stands as Kiss’s initial public statement about the group he intends to lead at Test level.