{
  "id": 409946,
  "title": "'Licence to play': New Wallabies coach backing players in attack",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/09/licence-to-play-new-wallabies-coach-backing-players-in-attack-409946",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-09T20:04:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-08-10/wallabies-encouraged-after-winning-first-test-japan/107014604"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Wallabies secured a thrilling 35-32 victory over Japan in their first Test match under new coach Les Kiss, granting them a \"licence to play\" after avoiding a disastrous loss. The Australian team overcame a red card and scorching heat to defeat Japan, with fly half Declan Meredith playing a crucial role despite his underwhelming performance. Japan managed to score an early try, but the Wallabies fought back to secure the win. Coach Kiss, who made four changes to the starting lineup, emphasized the need for the team to capitalize on their opportunities and commit to attacking plays. The team's composure and adaptability were evident as they adjusted to the demanding conditions, with Kiss himself laughing with his coaching staff after a tense game. The Wallabies will face Japan again in Townsville next Saturday in friendlier conditions, with Kiss hinting at potential adjustments to the team's approach.",
  "summary": "The Wallabies commit to having a crack after being given a \"licence to play\" by new coach Les Kiss, having avoided an Osaka disaster.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 4,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "ABC News",
        "title": "'Licence to play': New Wallabies coach backing players in attack",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/09/licence-to-play-new-wallabies-coach-backing-players-in-attack",
        "published": "2026-08-09T20:04:33.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "The Sydney Morning Herald",
        "title": "Why Wallabies coach Les Kiss was laughing as Japan Test hung in the balance",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/10/why-wallabies-coach-les-kiss-was-laughing-as-japan-test-hung-in-the",
        "published": "2026-08-10T01:46:04.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "The Age",
        "title": "Why Wallabies coach Les Kiss was laughing as Japan Test hung in the balance",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/10/why-wallabies-coach-les-kiss-was-laughing-as-japan-test-hung-in-the-427283",
        "published": "2026-08-10T01:46:04.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}