Joe Schmidt says the Wallabies’ focus is firmly on “regeneration” as they prepare for a defining year-end tour through Japan and Europe.
The Australian coach admitted his team is running on fumes after a demanding campaign that included hosting the British & Irish Lions and a bruising Rugby Championship. Australia finished third in the southern hemisphere competition, closing out their campaign with a 28-14 loss to the All Blacks in Perth – their 11th straight defeat to New Zealand.
“It’s all about regeneration now,” Schmidt said after the match.
“The players just need a bit of time and space. I can’t imagine how it could be a lot tougher than three massive Lions Tests, then going straight up and playing at Ellis Park. Hopefully, if we can get that regeneration period right, we’ll get a few players back.”
REPORT: All Blacks battle past Wallabies
The Wallabies have lost key men Tate McDermott and Tom Wright to long-term injuries, while flanker Fraser McReight’s ankle issue is a major concern, with Schmidt admitting it “doesn’t look too good”. They also bid farewell to stalwarts James Slipper and Nic White, both now retired.
Despite another disappointing campaign, skipper Harry Wilson remains optimistic.
“There’s definitely light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
“We’ve got to be better with those little margins. We’ve had opportunities, and we haven’t taken them.”
Australia are ranked seventh in the world and will need a strong tour to climb into the top six ahead of December’s World Cup draw, which determines the 2027 pool stage seedings.
READ: Rugby Champs to stay but move?
The Wallabies face Eddie Jones’ Japan in Tokyo on 25 October before Tests against England, Italy, Ireland and France.
“We’ve got to go after some results in the Northern Tour,” said Schmidt.
“The best way to do that is to win away from home – and it starts with Japan.”
Photo: Cameron Spencer/Getty Images
The post Schmidt welcomes break ahead of Euro tour appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
