Overview

• Australia’s 38–22 comeback from 22–0 down at Ellis Park ended a 62-year wait for a win there, but coaches and players frame Cape Town as the real measure.
• Joe Schmidt will name his side on Thursday (AEST) as the Wallabies prioritize matching South Africa’s physical edge after a ferocious Bok start in Johannesburg.
• Rugby Australia says initial scans on captain Harry Wilson’s knee show no structural damage, while Dylan Pietsch is likely out with a broken jaw and Andrew Kellaway is tipped to start.
• Rob Valetini is available after a calf issue, and if Wilson is rested, Fraser McReight is viewed as a leading captaincy option following his man-of-the-match display.
• Analysts credit Australia’s surge but point to South African penalties, turnovers and missed tackles, with broader questions raised about Bok fitness and an aging core ahead of their expected response; a bonus-point Wallabies win could send them top of the Rugby Championship.