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WALLABIES: 5 things to watch out for

football12 August 2025 13:00
By:Brenden Nel
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Australia arrive in South Africa a rejuvenated side, ready to take on the Springboks.

While they may have lost the test series against the British and Irish Lions, there’s a real sense that they finished the stronger team. Had it not been for the first-half blowout in Brisbane in the opening test, they might well have upset the odds and claimed the series.

Still, the World Champions are a different proposition. And while the Wallabies have been buoyed by recent performances, travelling to the Highveld and beating the Boks is another challenge entirely.

Rassie Erasmus and his management team will have taken note of what they saw from the Wallabies and will prepare accordingly. With bigger fixtures looming later in the year, the Boks will be determined not to slip up now.

So what should the Boks be wary of? Here are five threats the Wallabies bring to Johannesburg.

1. Will Skelton and the Rise of Wallaby Physicality

The Wallabies were a different side when Will Skelton joined them. His physicality, sheer size, and experience changed the way their pack handled the Lions and gave them a solid platform.

Skelton - standing 2.03m tall and weighing 145kg - was a force at the breakdown and made his presence felt throughout the series. Alongside Rob Valentini and Taniela Tupou, he forms a formidable trio that, if fit, will pose a serious physical challenge to the Boks.

Expect them to target the set-piece and do everything they can to disrupt South Africa’s platform play.

2. The Return of Nic White

Few Bok fans will forget the infamous dive by Nic White in the 2022 Rugby Championship clash that led to Faf de Klerk’s yellow card. It was a moment that sparked outrage and cemented White’s reputation as a master of gamesmanship.

Originally set to retire after the Lions series, injuries in the Wallaby camp have brought White back into the fold. He’s likely to be one of the most watched players in South Africa, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him try to influence the referee again.

 

3. Threats Out Wide

Australia continues to produce exciting young backline talent. In the Lions series, Dylan Pietsch and Max Jorgensen stood out with their pace, physicality, and attacking flair.

Both players are dangerous in space and won’t shy away from physical confrontations. If they make the starting line-up at Ellis Park, expect the Wallabies to give the ball some air and test the Bok back three.

 

 

4. The New Face of Australian Rugby

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii has been hailed as the future of Australian rugby since crossing over from league. With a skillset that includes power, unpredictability, and leadership, he’s already made a big impression.

Suaalii made his NRL debut at 17 and is now central to Joe Schmidt’s plans. The hard surface at Ellis Park could suit his style perfectly, and Bok fans will get their first real look at the 22-year-old prodigy.

5. Will the Old Dog Return?

With Tom Lynagh and Noah Lolesio unavailable, the Wallabies need a flyhalf to steer the ship in South Africa. While Joe Schmidt may opt for Ben Donaldson or rookie Tane Edmed, there’s a chance he could turn to veteran James O’Connor.

O’Connor, recently recalled to the squad, has toured South Africa extensively and brings valuable experience. After a strong season with the Crusaders, he could be a surprise inclusion at flyhalf – and the Boks will be watching closely.

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