The Wallabies face four major challenges if they are to defeat the Springboks in Perth this weekend, despite Rassie Erasmus’ efforts to praise Australia since arriving in the country.
South Africa will be without Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian de Allende, who have been sent back home after the gruelling series against the All Blacks. But the changes have done little to reduce the scale of the task confronting Australia.
The first test will come at scrum time, where the Wallabies must withstand the Springboks’ second shove on their own ball. South Africa’s power in the set piece can quickly turn possession into territory and pressure.
Australia will also have to cope with the Springboks’ aerial threat, particularly from players such as Damian Willemse and Ethan Hooker. Winning the contest in the air will be essential if the Wallabies are to prevent South Africa from dominating field position.
Clean lineout possession is another priority. The Wallabies must secure their own ball under intense pressure from an aggressive Springboks defence that is designed to disrupt launches before they can develop.
The final challenge will be stopping South Africa’s forceful carries from the forwards. Jasper Wiese, if selected, is among those capable of putting the Wallabies on the back foot with powerful runs and creating the front-foot momentum on which the Springboks thrive.
Australia’s selection at No.10 will be closely watched, with Declan Meredith expected to receive the nod. The demands of the match, however, mean the Wallabies will need a major contribution across the team rather than relying on one player to solve the problem.
The All Blacks managed to score plenty of tries during their four Tests against South Africa, but Australia must first survive the Springboks’ scrum pressure, aerial contests, lineout defence and heavy forward carries before victory becomes a realistic prospect.
