Australian rugby has witnessed a significant transformation under the guidance of Joe Schmidt, with pundits like Matt Williams praising the Wallabies’ recent successes. Despite the changes not requiring “rocket science,” the improvements have been evident. The Wallabies started strong by defeating South Africa in Johannesburg and narrowly losing in Cape Town, setting the stage for their upcoming match against Argentina in Townsville.
Williams, a former head coach at Leinster, has provided an in-depth analysis of the Wallabies’ evolution. This comes after a tumultuous period in Australian rugby, marked by the controversial dismissal of Dave Rennie and the subsequent appointment of Eddie Jones, which led to an unprecedented pool stage elimination at the World Cup in 2023.
The Joe Schmidt Effect
Joe Schmidt, formerly an assistant coach with the All Blacks, took over the Wallabies in 2024. His leadership has coincided with an upturn in the team’s fortunes. The Wallabies’ victory over England at Twickenham and their competitive matches against the British and Irish Lions are testament to this revival.
Williams, writing in the Irish Times, highlighted the pride Ireland feels in Schmidt’s achievements.
“Ireland love a winner and over the past few weeks, they have reclaimed Joe Schmidt with an embarrassing passion,”
he noted, humorously adding that Schmidt has become “Wallaby Joe” in the eyes of Australians.
Strategic Appointments and Fitness Focus
One of Schmidt’s key strategies has been the appointment of experienced coaches like Mike Cron and Laurie Fisher. These “old warriors” have played a crucial role in guiding a young team that had lost its identity and confidence. According to Williams, the Wallabies’ lack of fitness compared to other top teams was a glaring issue that Schmidt addressed.
“An absolutely crucial aspect of the Wallabies’ improvement is that Schmidt has worked these Wallabies into supreme condition,”
Williams emphasized. The enhanced fitness levels have boosted the team’s self-belief and confidence, which had been lacking for years.
Structural Changes and Player Development
The decision by rugby administrators Herbert and Waugh to cut the Melbourne Rebels Super Rugby franchise was another pivotal moment. This move concentrated Australia’s talent pool into four Super teams, leading to improved performances in 2025.
Schmidt has also focused on player consistency, sticking with a core group and captain Harry Wilson. He has advocated for the return of key players from overseas, with Will Skelton exemplifying the success of this policy.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite the progress, Schmidt’s tenure has not been without setbacks. A record loss in Argentina last year was a low point. However, Williams concluded his analysis with praise for Schmidt’s achievements, noting that he now has a competitive group of 25 international-quality players.
“The essence of Schmidt’s metamorphosis is not just that the Wallabies have won. It is that his Irish attacking plan of 2019 can only be found in the history books, and he has returned the Wallabies to a style of game that is uniquely Australian,”
Williams stated.
The Wallabies’ return to a traditional, intelligent, running style of rugby has reinvigorated the team and its supporters. While challenges remain, the future looks promising under Schmidt’s leadership. As the Wallabies prepare for a long season ahead, one thing is clear: Joe Schmidt’s impact on Australian rugby is undeniable.
