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WALLABIES MAKING LEAPS

The Straits Times

|

December 02, 2024

Schmidt heartened by team's progress despite ending 2024 with loss to Ireland

WALLABIES MAKING LEAPS

DUBLIN - Australia coach Joe Schmidt says his side are "maybe" not at the level yet to win the three-Test Series with the British & Irish Lions in 2025 but they are ready to make it a "contest".

The New Zealander was speaking after the Wallabies pushed Six Nations champions Ireland all the way, only to lose 22-19 at Lansdowne Road on Nov 30.

Defeat in their 13th and last Test of 2024 leaves Schmidt with a record of six wins and seven losses since he took over after Eddie Jones' disastrous tenure.

Schmidt has selected almost 50 players and brought through new talent since Jones' side exited the 2023 Rugby World Cup at the pool stage for the first time.

Eye-catching wins on the Northern Hemisphere tour over England and Wales reflected the former Ireland coach's success in rebuilding the side and restoring morale and pride.

Ever the realist, he accepts they are far from a finished product capable of beating the best on a regular basis quite yet.

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