Australian rugby has witnessed a significant transformation under the guidance of Joe Schmidt, a change that renowned pundit Matt Williams describes as pivotal yet straightforward. Despite the complexities often associated with sports management, Williams asserts that the improvements within the Wallabies did not require “rocket science.”
Williams, who recently engaged in a public debate with Springboks’ coach Rassie Erasmus, expressed his satisfaction with the Wallabies’ recent performances. The team secured a victory against South Africa in Johannesburg and narrowly missed out in Cape Town. As they prepare to host Argentina in Townsville, Williams offers an in-depth analysis of the changes in Australian rugby.
The Schmidt Era Begins
The Wallabies’ recent success marks a stark contrast to their previous struggles. The team faced a historic low when they were eliminated at the pool stage of the World Cup under Eddie Jones, following the abrupt dismissal of Dave Rennie. However, with Schmidt set to take over in 2024 after his tenure as an assistant with the All Blacks, the Wallabies have seen a resurgence.
Last November, they defeated England at Twickenham and delivered competitive performances against the British and Irish Lions. Williams highlights this transformation in his Irish Times column, noting,
“After the Wallabies came within a whisker of winning the Lions series, then defeated the world-champion Springboks at Ellis Park, Ireland are claiming the Wallabies coach as one of their own.”
Strategic Appointments and Fitness Focus
According to Williams, a key aspect of Schmidt’s strategy has been the appointment of seasoned coaches like Mike Cron and Laurie Fisher. Their experience has been crucial in guiding a young team that had lost its way. Additionally, Schmidt has emphasized fitness, a fundamental principle that Williams believes the Wallabies had been lacking.
Williams explains,
“An absolutely crucial aspect of the Wallabies’ improvement is that Schmidt has worked these Wallabies into supreme condition. Sports psychologists will testify that a big benefit of physical fitness is a lift in self-belief and confidence.”
Schmidt’s focus on fitness has not only improved the players’ physical condition but also their mental resilience and team cohesion.
Restructuring and Player Retention
Another significant move was the decision to cut the Melbourne Rebels Super Rugby franchise, consolidating Australia’s talent pool into four stronger teams. This restructuring has paid dividends, with Australian Super teams performing at higher standards in 2025.
Schmidt has also prioritized retaining a core group of players, including captain Harry Wilson, and has successfully brought back key overseas players like Will Skelton. This strategy has been vital for a country with a relatively small rugby talent pool.
Challenges and Triumphs
Despite the successes, Schmidt’s tenure has not been without challenges. Williams points to a record loss in Argentina as a low point. However, he remains optimistic about the future, praising Schmidt’s ability to build a competitive squad of about 25 international-quality players.
Williams concludes,
“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.”
Looking Ahead
The Wallabies’ revival under Schmidt is a testament to strategic leadership and a return to core rugby principles. As the team gears up for a long season, the focus remains on maintaining their unique Australian style of play. While the road ahead is challenging, the Wallabies are poised to build on their recent successes.
For now, as Williams humorously notes,
“All you Irish can forget claiming back ‘Joseph O’Schmidt’. Well done, Wallaby Joe.”
