On Friday, August 7, 2026, Australia's rugby team, the Wallabies, expressed determination to secure back-to-back test wins for the first time in a year ahead of their match against Japan in Osaka. Skipper Harry Wilson highlighted the need to remain cautious of the Japanese team, known as the Brave Blossoms, particularly their rapid counterattacks.

The Wallabies last achieved consecutive wins in August 2025 after victories over the British & Irish Lions and the Springboks. Their recent win against Italy in July ended a six-match losing streak, boosting team confidence. Wilson remarked, "It's always nice to get a win after a fair few losses on the trot," and added, "It definitely gave the team a little bit more confidence, but we're very aware we need to be a consistent team, we want to be winning consistently."

The upcoming match at Hanazono Rugby Stadium is expected to feature high temperatures and stifling humidity. Wilson noted the fast tempo of Japan's play and described some of their counterattacks as "unbelievable." He stressed the importance of strategic kicking to avoid giving Japan advantageous positions, saying, "So we have to kick really smart and when we give them the ball, we have to put them in the right positions because their back three and their flyhalf are very electric with the ball."

Four players in Japan's matchday 23—lock Harry Hockings, centre Dylan Riley, and loose forwards Jack Cornelsen and Ben Gunter—were raised in Australia. Wilson, a Queensland Reds stalwart, looked forward to reconnecting with these familiar faces.

This match also marks the first game under new Wallabies coach Les Kiss, who will face off against Japan's coach Eddie Jones, a former Wallabies coach aiming for Japan's first victory over Australia.

The Wallabies view this Saturday's game as an opportunity to build momentum with a second consecutive win.

Sources