Ciarán Frawley’s last-minute drop goal secured an incredible victory in Durban, marking the first time South Africa was unable to win a series against Ireland. This latest chapter in the ongoing rivalry saw Ireland claim two of their last three matches against the Springboks. Considering their 2022 series win in New Zealand, Ireland’s capability to achieve away victories in the southern hemisphere distinctly sets them apart from their European competitors. Their achievement of drawing the series in South Africa without Jamison Gibson-Park is a testament to the depth that Farrell has cultivated, with full-back Jamie Osborne emerging as the latest standout performer. Although Farrell won’t select his British and Irish Lions squad for about 10 months, his Irish players are likely to dominate it if their current form continues.
The reigning world champions managed to defeat Ireland in Pretoria, yet the loss in Durban will be tough to digest given their high standards at home, particularly following their performance in the first half. Shortened tours make sense post-World Cup, but a decider would have been thrilling. Instead, the Springboks can channel their frustrations against Portugal before focusing on reclaiming the Rugby Championship title, which they last held in 2019. Their squad appears to be aging compared to other top-ranked teams, and Faf de Klerk’s current struggles at scrum-half are likely a concern for Rassie Erasmus, echoing prior criticisms during their two World Cup victories.
The official score may show a 2-0 triumph for Scott Robertson, kick-starting his tenure, yet in both games against England, chances were ripe for the taking. Acknowledging their capacity to secure wins – along with Beauden Barrett’s brilliant performances off the bench – raises questions about how quickly Robertson can shake the rust off the team. Their depth at lock feels thin without Sam Whitelock and Brodie Retallick, and Barrett’s standout contributions prompt a discussion on selection strategy. Stephen Perofeta gained preference due to his club performances while Barrett, returning from Japan, took a spot on the bench, raising suspicions that the All Blacks could have been significantly sharper if Barrett had started each test. While traditionally they have paved their own path against market trends, the challenges continue to mount.
New Zealand’s recent performances, alongside a formidable thrashing of Japan, have shown promise. However, the reality is that they faced two losses and missed opportunities. On the bright side, their blitz defense and the emerging talent of Immanuel Feyi-Waboso show potential, along with the relentless spirit instilled by Steve Borthwick. The main worry lies in their scrum shortcomings and a tendency to falter during the crucial final stages of matches. This is notable because both losses against New Zealand saw England field inexperienced sides, who will surely gain valuable insights from the experience. Nonetheless, the impact of England’s substitutes hasn’t been felt as hoped.
Captain Baptiste Serin described the week leading to France’s loss to Argentina in the second Test as “very complicated.” The situation worsened with Melvyn Jaminet being sent home following his involvement in a racist incident on social media, and two players being charged with aggravated rape. Given these events, it’s understandable that France lost 33-25 in Buenos Aires despite previously winning the first Test and their midweek match against Uruguay. The opening Test victory was impressive considering the many senior players Fabien Galthié chose to leave behind, underscoring the substantial depth in the team.
Joe Schmidt, aware of the immense challenge in leading the Wallabies, can take solace in back-to-back wins against Wales, suggesting early progress. Schmidt’s methodical, fundamentals-first approach aligns with his established coaching style. While there is still a considerable journey ahead for the Wallabies to return to elite contention, there’s a sense of optimism with the New Zealander at the helm. At the very least, he brings a sense of maturity to the team after the tumultuous Eddie Jones era. With players like Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Schmidt has a solid foundation to build an imposing pack, and Hunter Paisami, Filipo Daugunu, and Tom Wright’s strong backline performances add to the positive outlook.
It may be somewhat unfair to rank them lower than their current world position, but they have achieved significant victories against Canada and the USA, with matches against Chile and Uruguay ahead. The fact that Duhan van der Merwe has drawn level with Stuart Hogg as Scotland’s top try-scorer highlights the wing’s impressive finishing abilities. Coach Gregor Townsend has also introduced several new caps, including Sale’s Arron Reed and Gus Warr. Harry Paterson, having already made his debut during the Six Nations, further impressed in his second appearance against Canada, indicating a promising international future.
While it may seem unfortunate for Felipe Contepomi to start his tenure with a loss against a weakened France team, the victory in Buenos Aires was a significant achievement, marking their first home win since 2022 and their first victory over France since 2016. This victory gives Argentina a boost as they look to compete in the Rugby Championship, with a match against Uruguay approaching. In the win against France, the Argentine props excelled, with Eduardo Bello and Thomas Gallo both scoring tries. Although it may be premature to declare a resurgence in their front-row strength, if Contepomi establishes a solid foundation upfront, Argentina will always have the attacking prowess to pose threats.
Georgia quickly bounced back from a disappointing home loss to Fiji with a surprising victory over Japan last weekend, contributing to Eddie Jones’s plight. This win serves as a proud moment for Richard Cockerill, who faced his previous England boss, and while aided by a red card, his influence is evidently taking shape. Notably, it was just the second time Georgia had triumphed over Japan. Meanwhile, Italy’s performances during the Six Nations have quieted discussions on promotion and relegation, but Los Lelos continue to strive against the barriers in their quest for recognition.
Wales now faces nine consecutive Test defeats, leading to their slip out of the top 10 in the world rankings, marking a new low. Warren Gatland has encountered similar situations in the past, notably when Wales lost eight straight matches beginning in summer 2012, though they managed to rebound during the subsequent Six Nations upon his return. Gatland might reference the youthful nature of his squad as a mitigating factor, finding some positives in player performances in Australia, such as Dewi Lake and Rio Dyer. However, with upcoming matches against Fiji, Australia, and South Africa, the prospect appears challenging after two recent losses to the Wallabies.
Eddie Jones has claimed a win after a Japan XV managed one victory against the Māori All Blacks in two matches; however, he is still seeking his first Test win since returning as coach of the Brave Blossoms. Italy’s recent victory over Tonga has propelled them to their joint highest ranking of eighth, yet their prior defeat by Samoa indicates that they still struggle with consistency. Canada, however, found solace in a 35-22 victory over Romania, who themselves achieved an admirable away victory against the USA.
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