Australia’s Wallabies slump to a 26-19 defeat against Italy

The Wallabies’ woes deepened in Udine as they surrendered a second-half lead to Italy, marking their sixth defeat in the past eight Tests under Schmidt. The loss is a major setback ahead of next month’s 2027 Rugby World Cup draw, with Australia now ranked seventh in the world and facing the daunting task of beating both Ireland and France on their remaining spring tour fixtures to secure a crucial top-six seeding.

The defeat was particularly painful given its echoes of history. The Wallabies had never lost to Italy until their shock defeat in Florence three years ago a result that cost then-coach Dave Rennie his job within a month. Now, Schmidt finds himself under similar scrutiny, with Rugby Australia already confirming that Les Kiss will take over in mid-2026, regardless of Schmidt’s tenure.

Captain Harry Wilson admitted the team is “hurting,” acknowledging that the breakdown was a mess and discipline once again proved costly. Schmidt, meanwhile, described the effort as “flat,” conceding that his side overplayed and failed to control momentum.

The Wallabies’ form has been alarmingly inconsistent. Since their stunning triumph over the world champion Springboks at Ellis Park in August, Australia has managed only two narrow wins against Argentina and Japan while suffering heavy defeats to England and now Italy. The 25-7 loss at Twickenham last week already raised alarm bells, and the latest setback has compounded fears that the team is sliding further off pace.

For fans, the frustration is palpable. With the Rugby World Cup set to be hosted in Australia in 2027, expectations are high, but the Wallabies’ inability to string together consistent performances has left confidence shaken. Analysts warn that unless discipline improves and the team finds cohesion, Australia risks entering the tournament as outsiders rather than contenders.

The road ahead is unforgiving. Facing Ireland in Dublin and France in Paris, the Wallabies must deliver performances far beyond what they have shown in recent weeks. Anything less will likely cement their place outside the top six, a seeding that could prove disastrous when the World Cup draw is finalized.

For now, Schmidt insists the team must regroup and rediscover its identity. But with pressure mounting and memories of Rennie’s dismissal fresh, the Wallabies’ leadership faces a critical test of resilience.