Wallabies upset Springboks in bizarre Test

The Australian Wallabies delivered another stunning performance in Perth, matching the remarkable show they put on at Ellis Park in 2025, to secure a 42-38 victory over the disjointed Springboks on Sunday. Leading 42-17 with around ten minutes remaining, the home side had seemingly sealed the win. Yet, in a similar fashion to their comeback from 22-0 down in Johannesburg, the Springboks mounted a strong comeback after enduring prolonged pressure, reducing Australia to 11 players via four yellow cards.

Despite the setback, Australia's victory at Optus Stadium was well-deserved, as they dominated territory and possession since the start, capitalizing on opportunities when they arose, ultimately clinching a well-earned win. The dramatic yellow cards and communication breakdown between the referee and Television Match Official added to the drama throughout the game, but it was the errors, discipline issues, and disjointed first-half performance that ultimately proved pivotal.

Head coach Rassie Erasmus introduced several changes to the side that had triumphed against the All Blacks two weeks earlier, deploying Herschel Jantjies and Handré Pollard as a new halfback pairing, while also giving the youthful front row trio of Zachary Porthen, Johan Grobbelaar, and Jan-Hendrik Wessels a chance. The back three of Aphelele Fassi, Ethan Hooker, and Edwill van der Merwe were also untested at the international level, and their lack of familiarity with one another seemed to hamper the Boks' ability to generate sustained rhythm.

The scrum, despite featuring a young front row, was also below the usual standards set by the world champions, while several players failed to capitalize on their opportunities. Fullback Fassi and loose forwards Marco van Staden and Elrigh Louw were among those who struggled to assert themselves. For Australia, the win served as a reminder of their potential when they possess momentum.

The Wallabies played with intent, seized their chances, and maintained pressure throughout, leaving the Springboks with valuable lessons after an otherwise disjointed performance.