Aussies well equipped

Captain Allan Alaalatoa said yesterday that the Wallabies will be better equipped to handle the physicality of South Africa as the teams prepare for wet and slippery conditions in the second Rugby Championship Test in Perth.

- Perth

Australia were thrashed 33-7 last week in Brisbane and left shell-shocked by the heft of the world champion Springboks, who particularly dominated at the scrum.

It was a reality check after Australia had won three straight matches against Wales and Georgia to kick-start new coach Joe Schmidt's tenure.

With thunderstorms and up to 40mm of rain forecast today, an uncompromising match is expected at Optus Stadium as attention focuses on Australia's battle of strength with the renowned bulk of South Africa.

"Something that the boys are ready for," Alaalatoa told reporters in Perth.

"Some of our boys, it was the first time playing them last week. (They'll) understand that feeling and understand where we need to be better.