Rugby Championship: Australia vs New Zealand Bledisloe Cup Preview

With South Africa on the verge of clinching the Rugby Championship title, focus shifts to the upcoming Bledisloe Cup match hosted in Sydney between traditional rivals Australia and New Zealand. Legendary Wallabies player, David Campese, weighed in on the forthcoming match, assessing the implications and expectations surrounding the face-off.

Campese expressed surprise at the exclusion of Ben Donaldson from Australia’s squad, a player noted for opening up Argentina‘s defense effectively in previous matches. He remarked, “I simply am astounded that the Wallabies have omitted Ben Donaldson. To overlook his potential handling and vision is, to me, criminal.”

The Wallabies’ front five, according to Campese, could pose a significant challenge to the All Blacks. “There’s a bit of power in the pack, a decent back-row, and Australia always raises their game for the oldest of enemies,” he noted. Observing that New Zealand’s team might be lacking in their usual strength, Campese added, “The Kiwis aren’t quite themselves; they look depowered at lock and they certainly have no idea what their best backline is.”

The match will feature a notable head-to-head between the captains playing in the number eight position, Australia’s Harry Wilson and New Zealand’s Ardie Savea. Both players are considered high-quality operators, though purportedly not in top form currently. Campese believes, “If the Wallabies are to win, Wilson needs a big performance.”

The former rugby star is particularly interested in the dynamic front-row contest, with world-class players like Angus Bell and Taniela Tupou representing Australia. Despite some optimism for Australia, Campese predicted a close encounter, tipping New Zealand to win 34-29.

In contrast, South Africa faces Argentina with several changes in their squad, yet they remain strong contenders with a deep bench. Argentina, under coach Felipe Contempomi, has strategically placed experienced players like Juan Martin Gonzalez and Guido Petti on their bench to counteract South Africa’s “bomb squad.” Campese, however, remains confident that South Africa might secure a win, stating, “You have to say South Africa by eight or so—27-18 or thereabouts.”