Wales Aim to Rewrite History Against Troubled Wallabies in Sydney
As the changeable Sydney weather mirrors the uncertainty surrounding the two troubled rugby nations, Australia and Wales gear up for a crucial Test match on Saturday at the Allianz Stadium. This will be Wales’ first tour of Australia in 12 years, and the expats are eagerly awaiting the return of their revered countrymen.
History suggests an uphill battle for both sides, with Australia struggling to win at home and Wales failing to defeat the Wallabies in Australia since 1969. However, this series is seen as a potential beginning of a new era for the two teams, as they aim to revive their fortunes.
The state of Australian rugby has been a cause for concern, with the Wallabies’ recent World Cup failure, financial issues, and a high turnover of coaches and captains. In contrast, Wales have also been in the doldrums, having endured a disastrous 2024 campaign that included a bottom-of-the-table finish in the Six Nations.
The reunion of veteran Kiwi coaches, Warren Gatland and Joe Schmidt, has added an intriguing subplot to the encounter. Gatland, who has returned to Wales for a second stint, is looking to help the team overcome their recent woes and secure a historic victory in Australia. Meanwhile, Schmidt, appointed by Australia in the wake of Eddie Jones’ departure, is tasked with rebuilding the Wallabies.
Both teams are fielding youthful and inexperienced squads, with several new faces set to make their debuts. Wales’ Gloucester wing Josh Hathaway, fly-half Ben Thomas, and prop Archie Griffin, who was born in Sydney, will all be hoping to make an immediate impact.
“We’re looking to write a few wrongs and put some pride back in the jersey,” said Wales captain, Alun Wyn Jones.
As the sun and clouds continue to dance over the iconic Sydney skyline, the two troubled rugby nations will collide in a match that could potentially mark the start of a new era for both teams. With the desire to “write a few wrongs” and “put pride back in the jersey,” Wales will be determined to end their long drought against the Wallabies on Australian soil.
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