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2w ago

Wallabies Brace for High-Altitude Opener at Ellis Park

Coach Joe Schmidt’s side is settling into Johannesburg to adapt to 1753-metre conditions ahead of their opening Rugby Championship Test

Rugby Union - Autumn Internationals - Wales v South Africa - Principality Stadium, Cardiff, Wales, Britain - November 23, 2024 South Africa's Siya Kolisi scores their fourth try Action Images via Reuters/Peter Cziborra/File Photo
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NELSPRUIT, SOUTH AFRICA - JULY 19: Siya Kolisi(c)of the Springboks in action during the 2025 Castle Lager Incoming Series match between South Africa and Georgia at Mbombela Stadium on July 19, 2025 in Nelspruit, South Africa. (Photo by Anton Geyser/Gallo Images)
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Overview

  • Australia’s national team has arrived in Johannesburg for the first of two Tests against the Springboks in The Rugby Championship
  • Coach Joe Schmidt reports no significant injury concerns and confirms prop Taniela Tupou is available after a toe complaint
  • The Wallabies are aiming to secure one victory on tour to end their 62-year losing run at Ellis Park and build momentum
  • Ellis Park’s elevation at 1753 metres presents oxygen challenges that Australia’s squad is addressing with targeted acclimatisation
  • South Africa seeks a bonus-point win in the opener to kick off their title defence before the series moves to Cape Town