Former Wallabies full-back Greg Martin believes that not even Joe Schmidt can turn Rugby Australia’s fortunes around. Martin hit out at Australia’s tactics and the head coach’s selections in the series-opening defeat to the British and Irish Lions.

Joe Schmidt says Harry Wilson is growing into the role as Wallabies captain, but the coach has no plans to make him the team's permanent leader despite the No. 8 leading Australia in nine of the last 10 Tests.

Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt believes captain Harry Wilson’s growing leadership and vast Rugby law knowledge has become a major asset for the team.

Farrell’s opposite number Joe Schmidt remained optimistic after last Saturday’s game, clinging to the positives of their two late tries in the 27-19 defeat at Suncorp Stadium, while also knowing he would have three more forwards back on deck for the MCG.

Joe Schmidt will unveil his team for the second test against the British & Irish Lions in Melbourne on Thursday, a lineup that could go a long way to defining his time as coach of Australia.

Hulking Lukhan Salakaia-Loto might still be out in the cold, but Joe Schmidt has promised the Wallabies won’t be “nice” or “submissive” for

"I've spoken to Lukhan since the Pasifika game, spoke to him before the game. We've got him pretty close by." #AUSvBIL #Lions2025

And with an unchanged backline keen to prove a point, this looks like a more convincing, powerful Wallabies selection than last weekend’s. Schmidt is hoping they bring a mean edge. “We don’t want to be nice, and we don’t want to be submissive,” said the Wallabies boss in Melbourne today.

Joe Schmidt has copped it from ex-players, pundits and supporters for numerous errors in judgement, be it preparation, selection or tactics.

It was the final question of the press conference following the British and Irish Lions’ victory over the ACT Brumbies last week that cut to the chase of the intriguing back story to this tour of Australia.

Joe Schmidt is set to add extra firepower to the Wallabies’ bench while sticking solid with most players who featured in the first Test defeat in Brisbane.

Joe Schmidt has vowed that his Wallabies side have learned their lesson as he prepares them to muscle up and force a series decider.