Twice world champion, twice runner-up: Australia is one of the top nations in international rugby. But at the current World Cup the team is on the verge of elimination.
After the historic 6:40 defeat against Wales, things are looking bad for the team from Down Under. The out-of-form Australians had already lost against Fiji the week before and can no longer make it into the top eight on their own.
Wales are at the top of Group C with 14 points after three wins from three games and can no longer be pushed out of one of the first two places, which entitle them to take part in the quarter-finals. Australia are level on six points with Fiji, who have played a game less. The Australians had won against Georgia 32:15 at the start, and even another win against Portugal in the last group game couldn’t help anymore. Progression is only possible if Fiji fails against Georgia or Portugal. It would be the first preliminary round exit ever.
Lost to Fiji for the first time since 1954
The 15:22 defeat against Fiji was a shock for the “Wallabies”. The big favorites lost a game against the men from the Pacific island for the first time since 1954, i.e. in 69 years – a disgrace for the proud rugby nation and a day of celebration for the island state.
Australia has taken part in every World Cup so far and, with two triumphs (1991 and 1999) and two second places (2003 and 2015), is the third strongest team behind New Zealand and South Africa.
After the 2015 World Cup, things went downhill
But the 2015 World Cup final defeat in England against New Zealand was something of a turning point. In the years that followed, the defeats increased. The team only won four of 13 games in 2018 – a negative record. At the 2019 World Cup in Japan, they were eliminated in the quarter-finals against England. As a result, there were record defeats against New Zealand (3:45) and Argentina (17:48) and Australia lost a game against Italy for the first time.
Last at the dress rehearsal
Even before the current World Cup, things were going badly. At the Rugby Championship 2023, one Annual tournament, Australia came last behind New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina. Coach Eddie Jones has only been coaching the team since January. He was the great hope before the tournament, as he had already successfully managed the team from 2001 to 2005.
Next World Cup in Australia
The negative development has taken a toll on rugby in Australia. The competition has long since overtaken the sport. For example, the very popular Australian Football, which particularly attracts young athletes.
The association must now finally react. The World Cup will take place in Australia in 2027. And if that turns into a disaster, it could be the end of the proud rugby nation.