Australia's Wallabies are eager to secure back-to-back test wins for the first time since August last year when they face Japan on Saturday, August 9th, 2026, in Osaka. The team aims to build on their recent victory over Italy in July, which ended a six-match losing streak.

Speaking in Osaka on Friday, Wallabies captain Harry Wilson acknowledged the challenge posed by Japan's fast-paced style and potent counterattack, describing it as "unbelievable." He emphasized the need for smart kicking and strategic play to manage Japan's electric back three and flyhalf.

Wilson also noted the presence of familiar faces among Japan's squad, including lock Harry Hockings, centre Dylan Riley, and loose forwards Jack Cornelsen and Ben Gunter, all raised in Australia. "There's a few familiar faces, a few Aussies I guess we grew up with," said Wilson, a Queensland Reds stalwart.

The match at Hanazono Rugby Stadium will be the first in charge for Australia's new coach Les Kiss, who will face off against Japan's Eddie Jones, a former Wallabies coach aiming to lead Japan to their first win over Australia. Wilson mentioned the expectation of high temperatures and stifling humidity during the game, adding that Japan is likely to start aggressively.

Wilson expressed optimism about the team's momentum: "It's always nice to get a win after a fair few losses on the trot. 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. We've got an opportunity this Saturday to get two in a row and really try and build the momentum in our squad."

Sources

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