Wallabies Consider Flying in Reinforcements After Fresh Injuries

Rethabile Nyelele18 August , 2025

1 2 minutes read

Wallabies Consider Flying in Reinforcements After Fresh Injuries — Image: SA Rugby Magazine

The Wallabies may need to call in additional players from Australia following a spate of injuries during their stunning victory over the Springboks at Ellis Park on Saturday. This was mentioned by coach Joe Schmidt.

Australia achieved a historic win in Johannesburg, a venue where they had triumphed only once in 12 previous attempts. After trailing 22–5 at halftime, the Wallabies stormed back in the second half. They scored five unanswered tries to secure a 38–22 victory.

Injury Woes Continue

The team’s injury list has been growing since the British & Irish Lions series. This prompted Schmidt to recall 35-year-old scrumhalf Nic White, who had initially retired during that series.

Late changes were already necessary before the match, with first-choice flyhalf Ben Donaldson sidelined. This led to Tane Edmed being drafted into the squad on the eve of the game. During Saturday’s clash, wing Dylan Pietsch, No. 8 Harry Wilson, and centre Len Ikitau all left the field with injuries.

Schmidt revealed that Pietsch suffered a jaw injury following a collision with Springbok captain Siya Kolisi. “He looks like he’s either badly bruised it or potentially fractured it. We’ll know more after scans,” Schmidt said.

Wilson’s injury appeared less severe. “Harry hurt his knee awkwardly while scoring his second try. Hopefully, he’ll be ready for next week. If we do call for reinforcements, it would likely be for a back-three player if Dylan isn’t 100%,” he added.

Stepping Up Under Pressure

Despite the disruptions, Schmidt praised the contributions of Edmed and James O’Connor. O’Connor was drafted into the starting XV due to Donaldson’s injury despite not having played Test rugby since 2022. “O’Connor grew into the game. The Springboks’ intensity rattled him initially, but he managed it well as the match progressed,” Schmidt said.

The Wallabies bench also played a crucial role in maintaining the team’s defensive intensity. Schmidt highlighted young talents like Zane Nonggorr, Angus Bell, Jeremy Williams, Tate McDermott, and Andrew Kellaway. He emphasized their versatility and rugby intelligence. “Our bench did an excellent job supporting the starting XV and sustaining our defensive effort throughout the game,” he noted.

With injuries mounting, Schmidt may soon have to call for reinforcements from home. This will ensure the Wallabies can maintain their momentum in the coming fixtures.