Australia vs South Africa LIVE: Rugby Championship score and updates as Wallabies face Springboks

Australia coach Dave Rennie is asking for some consistency from his Wallabies, and he’s leading by example after naming the same starting 15 players for Saturday’s Rugby Championship test against South Africa who beat the Springboks in Adelaide last time out.

It’s the first time that Rennie has named the same starting side for a test match since he took over as Wallabies coach in November 2019 — 26 matches ago. He’s hoping it will enable Australia to win consecutive matches for the first time this year. “When you win people think it’s relief, and really my thoughts five minutes after the game are how do we win next week?” Rennie said. “All the preparation and thinking is going into what our weaknesses look like, how do we make sure that we create an edge after a win rather than being satisfied?”

The Springboks are looking for a first win over the Wallabies in Australia since 2013. Last week they besieged the home try line for lengthy periods, but Handre Pollard’s penalty was their only reward until Kwagga Smith scored two tries in the last five minutes.

Follow the score and latest updates from the Rugby Championship below.

Australia vs South Africa

Match kicked off at 10.35am BST in Sydney

Earlier New Zealand hammered Argentina to end losing streak

TRY! Australia 0-7 SOUTH AFRICA (Damian de Allende try, 9 minutes)

TRY! Australia 3-12 SOUTH AFRICA (Canan Moodie try, 40 minutes)

TRY! Australia 3-17 SOUTH AFRICA (Franco Mostert try, 44 minutes)

TRY! Australia 3-22 SOUTH AFRICA (Makazole Mapimpi try, 71 minutes)

F/T: Australia 8-24 South Africa

F/T: Australia 8-24 South Africa

12:41 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Australia never quite found their way into the contest. South Africa had the better of the physical battle virtually from the off and any hopes of a comeback were rather ended by the losses of Hunter Paisami and Noah Lolesio to injury either side of half-time.

F/T: Australia 8-24 South Africa

12:39 , Harry Latham-Coyle

That was pretty comprehensive from South Africa, a performance built on typical forward strength but containing some delightful touches in possession, too, to secure their first win in Australia since 2013. Siya Kolisi led his side superbly through a contest that threatened to bubble over a few times, while I thought the playmaking axis of Damian Willemse and Willie le Roux struck the right balance of control and creativity.

Story continues

And Canan Moodie looks a player who could be a real star – his chase, leap and race to the line were truly effortless. A good start to life in test rugby for the debutant.

FULL TIME! AUSTRALIA 8-24 SOUTH AFRICA

12:35 , Harry Latham-Coyle

(Getty Images)

Australia 8-24 South Africa, 80 minutes

12:34 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The hooter sounds, and Australia knock on inside their own 22. South Africa are content to say “no more” – victory for the Springboks.

TRY! AUSTRALIA 8-24 South Africa (Pete Samu try, 79 minutes)

12:32 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A cynical slap-down from Willie le Roux but Australia score regardless! There were acres of space out on the left as Australia worked the hands, and Le Roux had little option but to gamble, shooting out and slapping down. That will be a clear-as-day yellow card, but Nic White is wise to possibilities that still remain, picking up and finding waiting teammates in the open acreage. Pete Samu trots in, Le Roux is shown yellow, and Australia will have one more crack after the conversion is missed.

Australia 3-24 South Africa, 78 minutes

12:31 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Better from the Wallabies, hoping to deny South Africa a bonus point with a couple of late scores. Jake Gordon’s tempo is excellent at the base.

Australia 3-24 South Africa, 77 minutes

12:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Two front-rowers are going 80 minutes here, both Malcolm Marx and Allan Alaalatoa producing remarkable efforts in a tough, physical test match – the latter particularly so after surely having the life scared out of him by Eben Etzebeth in that scuffle.

He wins a penalty, too, the Australian tighthead – South Africa drive on an illegal angle at the scrum.

Australia 3-24 South Africa, 76 minutes

12:27 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Australia vary their attacking play, Jake Gordon in at scrum-half with Nic White pushed to the wing. But the Wallabies have looked slightly lost since the departures of first Hunter Paisami and then Noah Lolesio, forced to employ a rejigged backline that surely will have spent little training time together.

A spinning blind pass tumbles forward from the hands of a frowning Marika Koroibete, who has been short of opportunities.

Australia 3-24 South Africa, 74 minutes

12:25 , Harry Latham-Coyle

South Africa are well placed for a bonus point, of course, and will be keen to close this out, even down to 14 players. Canan Moodie nearly repeats his acrobatic first-half trick, but can’t quite secure the catch of Cobus Reinach’s box kick.

Australia 3-24 South Africa, 72 minutes

12:23 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The try stands, though, and Frans Steyn knocks over the touchline conversion. It was more smart handling from South Africa to work the space, Willie le Roux fading to the outside on a wide miss pass and putting Mapimpi in.

Australia will have a penalty on halfway to restart the game but that is surely the death knell.

TRY! Australia 3-22 SOUTH AFRICA (Makazole Mapimpi try, 71 minutes)

12:16 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Makazole Mapimpi sprints into the corner for the score! But tempers flare and there’s an almighty scrap, and we are going upstairs for a check!

The try looks good, but Mapimpi had been angered by the cover tackle of Marika Koroibete. Like last week’s try-saver, Koroibete’s challenge looks to have a hint of the arm-less about it, though this one looks just about ok. Mapimpi inflames things by standing over Koroibete and telling him all about the score, instigating a mighty brawl, both sets of players piling in.

As ever in the modern era, it’s all pushing and shoving. Eben Etzebeth’s eyes open widely in a truly terrifying manner as he grasps the shirt of Allan Alaalatoa, driving the prop infield with seemingly cruel intent, though holding back wisely.

Yellow card for Mapimpi! A long discussion between Ben O’Keeffe and his TMO Brendon Pickerill, but the try-scorer won’t see out this game for his role in sparking that fracas.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 70 minutes

12:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Siya Kolisi has earned a deserved sit-down, the South African captain replaced for the final ten minutes after an excellent showing. Duane Vermeulen’s introduction ensures little drop off in back-row leadership.

Deon Fourie was named as hooker cover but he also appears to now be on and at flanker, his regular position for the Stormers. The new-look South African scrum earns penalty advantage, and there’s space on the left edge…

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 68 minutes

12:13 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Can Australia find something to get them going? Rob Valetini has carried superbly all night, and makes a hulking dent, but Dave Porecki takes Kwagga Smith around the neck as he tries to make sure the ball comes back cleanly. It just hasn’t quite happened for Australia.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 67 minutes

12:12 , Harry Latham-Coyle

South Africa continue to look a threat but can’t quite fully cut Australia open. Damian Willemse’s toe ahead hops uncomfortably for Tom Wright, now at full-back, but the Wallaby is able to ground for a goalline drop out.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 65 minutes

12:10 , Harry Latham-Coyle

James Slipper is going off, so Allan Alaalatoa will be Dave Rennie’s 80-minute man in the front row. Dave Porecki is trotting on, too, so Folau Fainga’a’s evening is done, while Rob Leota replaces Matt Philip. Trevor Nyakane steps in for Frans Malherbe on the South African tighthead.

There is Leota, darting on a sharp line after lurking in the 13 channel, but failing to fully get back to his feet before crawling for extra metres and penalised.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 63 minutes

12:07 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Another useful pilfer! Pete Samu wraps his biceps around Franco Mostert and spins away from the contact area in possession. Australia just about clinging on.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 62 minutes

12:06 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Stolen! A vital little hand in the air from Darcy Swain, disrupting Malcolm Marx’s throw and preventing South Africa launching a coordinated maul offensive. Rob Valetini ends up with the ball, and Australia can look to clear.

But it is a real battle to get out of their own territory, and South Africa soon have ball back in hand.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 61 minutes

12:04 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Held up! Damian de Allende keeps his legs pumping but Australia are happy enough to let him continue, bodies safely beneath the ball as the South African centre is driven over the line.

Australia were too early in their drive at the maul, though – back for a South African penalty with the Springboks on the hunt for a fourth score that would probably put this contest just about out of sight.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 60 minutes

12:02 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A raised hand of apology from Nic White as he slices his box kick straight into touch.

And South Africa go fast! A quickly-taken lineout and an offside penalty against Australia, Pete Samu perhaps a touch fortunate that his slap goes backwards rather than forwards after sticking out his left paw to deflect a pass.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 57 minutes

12:01 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Pete Samu replaces Fraser McReight, who hasn’t quite made the impact he did a week ago, in the Australia back row, while South Africa are reshuffling their pack, too. Off goes Lood de Jager, on comes Kwagga Smith, with Franco Mostert reassigned one row further forward.

Siya Kolisi is ruled to have made a high tackle on Tom Wright – it’s slightly harsh, because Wright had come down to virtually a seated position after taking a high ball, but there is head contact. Just a penalty.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 55 minutes

11:58 , Harry Latham-Coyle

There’s head contact from Alaalatoa, who is low and attempting to wrap. Penalty to South Africa! Foul play overrides the original technical infringement, with the high tackle penalty null and void, it would seem. Siya Kolisi with a little punch of the air – South Africa survive and kick up towards halfway.

TMO check! Australia 3-17 South Africa, 55 minutes

11:56 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Hang on – Brendon Pickerill has spotted something from an Australian that he think requires a further look. The TMO calls down to his referee and wants him to look at a cleanout from Allan Alaalatoa.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 55 minutes

11:55 , Harry Latham-Coyle

South Africa collapse the Australian maul. Another penalty coming – can Australia make a telling charge with the advantage? They can’t, rather aimlessly going left and right and eventually ten yards back.

But a high tackle from South Africa brings a sharp blast of the whistle from Ben O’Keeffe. He calls Siya Kolisi over for a stern talking to. That’s about seven penalisable offences in the last few minutes.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 53 minutes

11:53 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A sizeable blow for Australia – Taniela Tupou has been officially ruled out from participating after suffering a calf injury in the warm-up. One of Dave Rennie’s best bench options is gone, and Allan Alaalatoa or James Slipper will have got 80 minutes.

Australia earn another penalty inside the South Africa 22. Reece Hodge kicks to the corner.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 51 minutes

11:51 , Harry Latham-Coyle

It is Reece Hodge at first receiver for the Wallabies, Len Ikitau and Andrew Kellaway in the centres with a back three of Jake Gordon, Marika Koroibete and Tom Wright.

Nic White tosses the ball against Siya Kolisi, arms spread in complaint to the referee after an apparent Australian infringement, to earn an offside penalty.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 51 minutes

11:49 , Harry Latham-Coyle

South Africa’s lineout fails to function fully and Fraser McReight executes a good one-two to create a stable platform from which the Wallabies can clear.

Jaden Hendrikse knocks on as he puts up a periscope in search of an over-the-top offload.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 49 minutes

11:47 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Intercepted! Nic White leaps and snatches the pass from Willie le Roux out of the air!

In truth, it was an ambitious heave from the full back, desperate to get the ball wide to Makazole Mapimpi as quickly as possible, but White spotted it and grabbed it above his head.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 48 minutes

11:46 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Tom Wright twice collects South African kicks, first leaping to take a mark, then scuttling after a grubber. Marika Koroibete tries to dance past Damian Willemse but is held by the Springboks’ playmaker, and a short exit from Nic White will keep South Africa in advanced territory.

Australia 3-17 South Africa, 46 minutes

11:44 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Problems for Australia. With Hunter Paisami already off due to a head knock, Noah Lolesio is now off, and the Wallabies have only two backs on the bench. On comes Jake Gordon, taking a spot on the wing. Reece Hodge to ten, Tom Wright to full-back? We’ll see how Australia shape in attack but for now they are back on defence.

TRY! Australia 3-17 SOUTH AFRICA (Franco Mostert try, 44 minutes)

11:41 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Superb handling and South Africa strike early in the second half. Australia never reset after that initial burst down the left, and as the ball is swept out to the right a sizeable overlap presents itself.

The handling is outstandingly sharp, Jasper Wiese offloading nicely, Damian de Allende shifting on, and Franco Mostert has no need for the extra body to his outside as he survives the rigours of Fraser McReight’s high shot to score.

Australia 3-12 South Africa, 43 minutes

11:41 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Fizzing stuff from South Africa, working through the hands on the left. Out wide to Steven Kitshoff (!), collecting the pass from Siya Kolisi as the captain tumbles to floor. Kolisi just about keeps the ball in play…

Australia 3-12 South Africa, 41 minutes

11:39 , Harry Latham-Coyle

After an extended kicking exchange, that isn’t particularly aethetically pleasing – a horrible slice off the right peg of Damian Willemse that ends up in the hands of Len Ikitau. The Wallabies soon put ball to boot again and South Africa have it back.

Back out there

11:37 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Out come the two team, ready to resume proceedings. Damian Willemse gets things back underway.

H/T: Australia 3-12 South Africa

11:25 , Harry Latham-Coyle

That Canan Moodie try makes the scoreboard slightly more accurate to the pattern of the game. South Africa were dominant for large periods in that first half, winning the battle of the gain line and at the set piece and kicking cannily too. They didn’t quite manage to bust Australia open, and the Wallabies fought back well after Matt Philip’s sin-binning, but that brilliant Moodie score has South Africa firmly on top.

It’s the first time since the 2019 Rugby World Cup final that South Africa have led at half-time on neutral or foreign territory. Ominous for Australia.

HALF TIME! Australia 3-12 South Africa

11:23 , Harry Latham-Coyle

(Getty Images)

TRY! Australia 3-12 SOUTH AFRICA (Canan Moodie try, 40 minutes)

11:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A bolt from the blue on debut and Canan Moodie has his first try in international rugby! Crikey is this 19-year-old some athlete. This is utterly outstanding, chasing after a Jaden Hendrikse kick that appears to be flying much too long, eating up the ground with ludicrously smooth, long strides.

Up he leaps, too, with effortless grace, beating a flat-footed Marika Koroibete. Moodie continues his run like an expert steeplechaser, easing back up into fourth gear to ensure he has the better of the chasers. He’s embraced by each and every one of his teammates – South Africa strike just before half-time.

Australia 3-7 South Africa, 37 minutes

11:19 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A bit of magic from Damian Willemse, threatening the line with a shimmy and then producing a lively offload between the bodies for Lood de Jager to stomp on to. South Africa begin to build but Fraser McReight halts their charge with a typically precise jackal, Willie le Roux shifting him from the side and duly penalised.

Australia 3-7 South Africa, 35 minutes

11:18 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The fractured first half continues. Andrew Kellaway dips a shoulder to ease Makazole Mapimpi aside and out of that path of Reece Hodge as the full-back darts infield to collect Noah Lolesio’s kick. A good spot from the officials – Kellaway is penalised.

Australia 3-7 South Africa, 34 minutes

11:16 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Loose from Damian Willemse, missing touch as he tries a banana into the corner. Reece Hodge, by contrast, produces a great boomer, hitting the South Africa fly-half just a couple of metres outside of his own 22 and a metre out of the field of play.

Australia 3-7 South Africa, 33 minutes

11:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Fine exit from Nic White after the restart, thumping beyond the halfway line and leading the chase to prevent any thought of a quick throw from South Africa.

But Folau Fainga’a is offside at the maul. The Wallabies cry foul, believing they spotted a knock-on, but the decision was already made, it appears.

PENALTY! AUSTRALIA 3-7 South Africa (Noah Lolesio penalty, 32 minutes)

11:14 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The Australian captain nods his assent, and Noah Lolesio strikes the three.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 30 minutes

11:13 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Australia attack the space at the back of the lineout, Rob Valetini looping around to combine with Folau Fainga’a. The big number eight is putting in some sort of shift in this five-minute burst, carrying again into Eben Etzebeth, but losing grip of the ball. Hang on – he’s been taken high by the South African second row. Just a penalty, but that should put the hosts on the board.

But not before another light skirmish as the two sides trade harsh words and soft blows. Ben O’Keeffe lets things settle down before checking that James Slipper does indeed want to kick at goal.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 29 minutes

11:10 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The most coherent attacking movement of the match form Australia, working up towards ten phases with Marika Koroibete and Rob Valetini each prominent. The latter offloads superbly for the former moments after bouncing off the deck in the tackle, and South Africa then infringe. Australia into the South African 22 for the first time.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 27 minutes

11:09 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Yep, it seems that Andrew Kellaway is in midfield, with Reece Hodge kept at full back. South Africa are penalised at a ruck as their attack falls flat.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 26 minutes

11:08 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Biff! Siya Kolisi sits down Hunter Paisami, a rare occurence, with a muscular midfield carry. Jaden Hendrikse again threatens that surprise box kick up the middle, but Nic White is wise to it, and, in fact, to Hendrikse’s attempt to scurry through the gap left as White leaps.

In the end, it all goes awry, and Paisami is in need of treatment. He and Kolisi, both dipping low, had a clash of heads in that collision, and Paisami will head off for an HIA at least. Andrew Kellaway comes on – it looks like he is going into the centres.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 25 minutes

11:04 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Hunter Paisami niftily dummies and threatens to ghost through a suddenly-apparent gap, Eben Etzebeth wrapping his fingers around the centre to prevent further progress. There’s space on the right as Noah Lolesio seeks a 50:22…just pushed too far on the angle, and landing directly on the touchline. Out on the full.

(Getty Images)

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 24 minutes

11:01 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Another sign of the sort of gas Canan Moodie has in those long legs, Damian Willemse finding his wing with a little chip across, and Marika Koroibete having to properly hit the acclerator to just about get enough of a hip to prevent Moodie cantering away. The teenager’s fling infield travels forward from the hand. Scrum, Australia feed.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 22 minutes

11:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Ooh – an extended arm from Jed Holloway knocks the ball up in the air…just a scrum, according to referee Ben O’Keeffe. Usually, that’s at least a penalty, with the threat of a line break beyond the long-limbed flanker, but South Africa seem to accept O’Keeffe’s suggestion that it was a genuine attempt to catch the ball.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 20 minutes

10:59 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The time is all but up for Matt Philip, with the lock ready to return as Australia set a scrum. For now, Jed Holloway slides up into the second row with Marika Koroibete on the flank.

Now Philip will return – Nic White’s flat pass arrives awkwardly on the hop and Tom Wright can’t gather cleanly. Philip returns to the row, Holloway to the blindside and Koroibete stalks back to the wing.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 18 minutes

10:56 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A long kick from South Africa gives Australia a goalline drop out, affording them an opportunity to take another minute or so off Matt Philip’s spell in the sin bin.

Eventually, Nic White does kick long, Damian de Allende initially using his boot to control it. It’s a centre-half’s touch, though, and as De Allende rushes after it to prevent Australia getting to the loose ball first, he knocks on at his ankles.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 16 minutes

10:54 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Australia are struggling to settle into their attacking work. Another error of entry at a ruck ends their latest attempt to get something going.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 15 minutes

10:53 , Harry Latham-Coyle

South Africa kick again early in the phase, Jaden Hendrikse with a pre-planned midfield box kick with Australia’s backfield defence spread wide. Unfortunately for the scrum-half, what looks a delightfully loopy little hoist won’t be rewarded with Makazole Mapimpi haring after it from an offside position.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 14 minutes

10:51 , Harry Latham-Coyle

South Africa can’t make much of their attacking lineout ball, Damian Willemse on his heels and forced to kick in a relatively unthreatening manneer to Reece Hodge. Hodge collects cleanly and allows Nic White to clear from the base of a ruck.

Australia 0-7 South Africa, 12 minutes

10:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Philip is Australia’s lineout caller but the set-piece functions well for the home side despite the lock’s absence. But the ruck that follows looks rather less pretty, Fraser McReight losing his feet.

Handbags! Nic White (obviously) appears to be the instigator, hiding the ball from the South Africans and then tossing it away. Ben O’Keeffe has a chat with both captains after a brief fracas, insisting that he will tolerate no further escalation.

TRY! Australia 0-7 SOUTH AFRICA (Damian de Allende try, 9 minutes)

10:46 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Brilliant offload from Eben Etzebeth and Damian de Allende crosses!

The pressure tells, as it always seemed likely to with South Africa off to such a hot start. Etzebeth is stood up as he tries to carry for the line but has the presence of mind to pivot and dump off to De Allende, who finds a path of lesser resistance to slam the ball down beneath the posts.

And a yellow card, too! Matt Philip will pay for tackling Hendrikse after that quick tap and he’s off for ten minutes in the sin bin. Australia seven behind and down to 14 players.

Australia 0-0 South Africa, 8 minutes

10:46 , Harry Latham-Coyle

For a second time, a demolition job from Rory Arnold and co., forcing the maul to implode. But South Africa are granted a penalty advantage with Australia deemed to have infringed again.

Damian Willemse nearly busts free! The fly-half looks a real danger.

And here’s his half-back partner! Jaden Hendrikse taken from an offside position after quick tapping…

Australia 0-0 South Africa, 6 minutes

10:44 , Harry Latham-Coyle

This is a sustained spell of pressure from South Africa to begin the game in earnest. Australia can only clear to the fringes of their own red area and Malcolm Marx’s maul drill is much better set. Marx hurries away and into Nic White as Australia are penalised.

Matt Philip picked out for an infringement in the final throes of that maul – South Africa head to the corner to see what more damage their drive might cause.

Australia 0-0 South Africa, 5 minutes

10:42 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Moodie is up after a Le Roux kick with grander amplitude, but Reece Hodge takes in commanding fashion.

But Jasper Wiese spots a loose ball and is on to it! Off the rhinoceros-like number eight stomps, lowering the horn to make five metres through contact. Cross-kick for Makazole Mapimpi…into touch! Another sharp kick play, and more space apparent, but not quite finding South African hands.

Australia 0-0 South Africa, 3 minutes

10:41 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Malcolm Marx finds Lood de Jager in the middle, but Rory Arnold wrecks any thought of a maul, planting his enormous frame right at the centre of the Wallabies’ counter-shove.

South Africa are forced to their backs, but a wayward pull-back pass from Steven Kitshoff sends them retreating out of the 22.

Nearly! Deft clip over the top from Willie le Roux and debutant Canan Moodie is so close to getting on to it, perhaps a sly tug back just as he tries to gather preventing a clean catch of the bouncing ball. An early display of his explosive speed, though.

Australia 0-0 South Africa, 2 minutes

10:39 , Harry Latham-Coyle

More productive ruck work from the South Africans, disrupting Nic White, who is being booed by the scattered Sprinboks fans in attendance.

Australia are caught offside in midfield after Willie le Roux takes a high kick. Damian Willemse will kick towards the left corner…South Africa’s lineout just inside the Australian 22.

Australia 0-0 South Africa, 1 minute

10:38 , Harry Latham-Coyle

An early touch for Damian Willemse, boots flashing as he puts on some footwork to evade the first tackler. Jaden Hendrikse’s first box kick is good, contestable about 30 metres upfield, and South Africa counter-ruck and hack further on.

Ready for kick-off…

10:37 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Australia will kick things off. Ben O’Keeffe, of New Zealand, is the referee, with compatriot Brendon Pickerill in the TMO truck.

Nic White has the ball, and there’s the peep of the whistle! Off we go!

Anthems

10:36 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The rain looks to be coming down pretty steadily in Sydney, moistening the surface and the tops of the South African squad’s heads. The crowd appears well lubricated, too, falling respectfully silent for the first notes of the South African national anthem. Siya Kolisi looks to the heavens for the final line.

Taniela Tupou clutches the hands of Pete Samu and Rob Leota either side of him as he sings “Advance Australia Fair”. Nic White is in fine voice, moustache bouncing up and down as he enunciates each and every note. The suggestion is that the design of this stadium amplifies the atmosphere.

Lloyd Walker performs Welcome to Country

10:33 , Harry Latham-Coyle

It’s an ex-Wallaby with the honour of welcoming both sides to Sydney, eight-cap centre Lloyd Walker with a Wallabies scarf around his neck.

And Australia…

10:31 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Rather louder is the roar from the crowd for the arrival of their Australian heroes, led by James Slipper, settling into that captaincy role with Michael Hooper continuing to take a break from the game.

Out come the Springboks

10:30 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A mixed reaction to the emergence of the South African side, with a few travelling supporters making themselves known, whooping and hollering and waving flags.

10:29 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Siya Kolisi steps from right foot to left and back again, closing his eyes in thought and prayer as he readies himself at the head of the South African squad. In the Wallabies’ dressing room, Reece Hodge takes a deep breath, while Rob Valetini (on his birthday) takes a deep glug of water.

Australia vs South Africa

10:26 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Fireworks, flames and flashing lights illuminate the newly-opened sporting amphitheatre in the Sydney suburbs, green and gold livery giving the full stands a history lesson with footage of some of Australia’s past greats. This should be a lot of fun.

Australia vs South Africa

10:24 , Harry Latham-Coyle

It’ll be fascinating to see how South Africa play with Damian Willemse at ten. He looked one of the hottest prospects in the world as an age-group fly-half but he’s played a lot of rugby elsewhere since, and his natural running game may not be the most natural fit if South Africa wish to slot him into the Handre Pollard role. I’d expect to see a few tweaks to their system, with Willie le Roux likely to play a crucial role as always, stepping up into the line to assist Willemse with playmaking duties.

Australia vs South Africa

10:21 , Harry Latham-Coyle

There were 41,906 people packed into Allianz Stadium yesterday for opening night, with the Sydney Roosters providing double delight for their home fans with both the men’s and women’s sides victorious. The Australian players sounded excited to get amongst things in their gleaming new home, which has a busy first week in the job – the Matildas play Canada in a friendly on Tuesday and the NRL final will be hosted at the ground next weekend.

Team News – South Africa

10:15 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The South African selection is rather more intriguing. Handre Pollard has arrived in Leicester after being jettisoned from the Springboks’ camp after an injury, which necessitates a new fly-half: enter jack-of-all-trades Damian Willemse, plenty familiar with the position after starring at ten at schoolboy and junior level.

Willemse is joined in the halves by Jaden Hendrikse with Faf de Klerk left out, while Lukhanyo Am is another sent home due to injury – Jesse Kriel will try to fill the hole vacated by perhaps the best pure outside centre in the world. On the wing, a debut for Canan Moodie, the tall teenager mature beyond his years who becomes South Africa’s second youngest men’s Test cap.

Up front, injury has also struck Pieter-Steph du Toit, so up steps Franco Mostert, while Jasper Wiese and Steven Kitshoff are preferred to Duane Vermeulen and Ox Nche respectively. Of note elsewhere is the presence of Deon Fourie providing front row cover for Malcolm Marx, who starts – the Stormers veteran isn’t truly a hooker any more, preferring to ply his trade on the flank, but needs must, and a player who had to battle for years for an international chance will take every opportunity he gets.

South Africa XV: S Kitshoff, M Marx, F Malherbe; E Etzebeth, L de Jager; F Mostert, S Kolisi (c), J Wiese; J Hendrikse, D Willemse; M Mapimpi, D de Allende, J Kriel, C Moodie; W le Roux.

Replacements: D Fourie, O Nche, T Nyakane, K Smith, D Vermeulen; C Reinach, F Steyn, W Gelant.

Team News – Australia

10:12 , Harry Latham-Coyle

It’s a familiar looking Australian side named by Dave Rennie after such a positive performance in Adelaide seven days ago. The starting lineup remains intact, while there’s just a single alteration to the Wallabies’ bench – Sydneysider Jake Gordon is preferred to Tate McDermott as the replacement scrum-half.

“It’s great to be able to have some consistency in selection with the team that played last week earning the right to wear the jersey again in Sydney,” Rennie said on Thursday. “While rapt with last week’s effort, we’re well aware of the challenge a wounded Springbok poses and the intensity we will require again on Saturday night.”

Australia XV: J Slipper (c), F Fainga’a, A Alaalatoa; R Arnold, M Philip; J Holloway, F McReight, R Valetini; N White, N Lolesio; M Koroibete, H Paisami, L Ikitau, T Wright; R Hodge

Replacements: D Porecki, S Sio, T Tupou, D Swain, R Leota, P Samu; J Gordon, A Kellaway.

Michael Hooper to miss remainder of Rugby Championship

10:09 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Australia captain Michael Hooper will miss the rest of the Rugby Championship at least as he continues to deal with the issues that cut short his involvement in the recent tour of Argentina, Wallabies coach Dave Rennie said on Thursday.

The openside flanker pulled out of the team and flew home from Argentina on the eve of the Rugby Championship opener, telling Rennie he was not in the right frame of mind to play his 122nd Test.

Rennie said he had been in frequent contact with Hooper but did not want to share too much from their conversations out of respect for the 30-year-old’s privacy.

“We’re not looking to include him in the rest of the Rugby Championship and then we’ll make decisions beyond that,” Rennie told reporters after naming his team for today’s game.

“We’re certainly not looking to rush him back in, but he’s on the improve.”

Australia captain Michael Hooper to miss rest of Rugby Championship

On to Australia vs South Africa…

10:06 , Harry Latham-Coyle

We’ll have plenty more reaction to New Zealand’s win over the rest of the weekend, but it’s another jam-packed Saturday of Rugby Championship action, and there’s a new arena filling nicely in Sydney. Allianz Stadium hosts rugby union for the first time with the Springboks in town and out for revenge against the Wallabies…

F/T: New Zealand 53-3 Argentina

10:04 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A decisive dismantling from New Zealand, and that’ll make Ian Foster feel rather better about the direction of his side. He challenged those that fell short last week to improve and to-a-man they did. I thought the centre partnership of David Havili and Rieko Ioane had probably their best game in partnership, while Cane certainly led from the front. They may be having a bad year but this remains a very, very talented side – and they showed that today.

All Blacks captain Sam Cane reacts to a fine New Zealand victory

10:01 , Harry Latham-Coyle

“Obviously massively important. We were under a bit of pressure. This week we were in the game rihgt from the start and were able to turn that into points.

“I thought our defence was outstanding. Our discipline, too. I’m pleased with the way we kept it on for the full 80. I just love the attacking mindset. It’s awesome. We are really stoked to be able to put out a performance that we are proud of at home. We hadn’t really done that this year.

“There’s always massive pressure and we put it on ourselves too. It was just a nice reward for the hard work we have been putting in and getting everyone to see it.”

F/T: New Zealand 53-3 Argentina

09:59 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Talk about a reaction. An All Blacks performance of old, that, seven tries to none with Argentina thoroughly out-classed in the Hamilton wet. New Zealand played the percentages well but it was their execution and accuracy that made the difference in inclement conditions.

FULL TIME! NEW ZEALAND 53-3 ARGENTINA

09:58 , Harry Latham-Coyle

(Getty Images)

TRY! NEW ZEALAND 53-3 Argentina (Beauden Barrett try, 85 minutes)

09:56 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A sharp set-piece strike and New Zealand hit 50! Ardie Savea bursts away from the base of the scrum, Beauden Barrett fades behind brother Jordie setting the short line, and around the corner the replacement fly-half hustles to dive over for New Zealand’s seventh try. The All Blacks raise the bat, and the younger Barrett brother sends us to a close with the conversion. A thumping.

New Zealand 46-3 Argentina, 82 minutes

09:55 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Another penalty to New Zealand as the intensity of the rain ratchets up again. In the shadow of the posts, New Zealand fancy a scrum.

New Zealand 46-3 Argentina, 81 minutes

09:54 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Another rip from New Zealand, though, and a chip ahead is chased after gamely by Will Jordan, whose step count has been high.

Lucio Cinti escapes the clutches of the All Blacks’ right wing, a hurdler’s step free from Jordan’s lunge, but the next Argentine carrier is isolated and penalised for holding on.

Ardie Savea isn’t happy with Matias Moroni, and for the first time all night there is a little bit of niggle. The clock’s in the red, chaps, and one side is 43 points up – I’m not sure exactly what you hope to achieve.

Anyway, Beauden Barrett prods into the corner and New Zealand will have a shot at 50.

New Zealand 46-3 Argentina, 80 minutes

09:52 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The All Blacks set off on the hunt for 50, but Finlay Christie is gathered up like laundered linen as he dallies at the base. Argentina earn a penalty and they will instead seek a consolation.

New Zealand 46-3 Argentina, 79 minutes

09:50 , Harry Latham-Coyle

An errant lineout, by contrast, rather sums up Argentina’s day. Their accuracy has just been slightly off in all facets.

New Zealand 46-3 Argentina, 77 minutes

09:49 , Harry Latham-Coyle

We expected a reaction from New Zealand but this really has been a performance reminiscent of their best. Brodie Retallick is absolutely on it, first stealing the ball from the hands of an Argentina carrier like a biscuit from the tin, and then making a hammering tackle on Juan Cruz Mallia some seventy metres upfield after Beauden Barrett’s long punt.

TRY! NEW ZEALAND 46-3 Argentina (Brodie Retallick try, 74 minutes)

09:45 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Another for the All Blacks!

More excellent continuity as spaces begin to appear against a tiring Argentina defence. Rieko Ioane appears set to score as he knifes between two tacklers but Juan Martin Gonzalez hauls him back. Fletcher Newell is brought to a stop a metre short but Brodie Rettallick will not be, back in an All Blacks shirt and back on the scoresheet with Sam Whitelock providing muscular support on his hip.

Jordie Barrett converts on this occasion.

New Zealand 39-3 Argentina, 72 minutes

09:44 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Lovely execution from the All Blacks as they try a strike move from a lineout on the right, ball efficiently transferred behind two dummy runners between the Barrett back brothers. Jordie shimmies to the outside and has Caleb Clarke with him, toeing ahead for the rapid wing, but a skew off the left sees it skid into touch before Clarke can properly put the hammer down in pursuit.

New Zealand 39-3 Argentina, 70 minutes

09:42 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Fletcher Newell’s stint in the sin bin is over, allowing both he and Sam Whitelock, sacrificed to ensure the All Blacks had a qualified tighthead on, to return. Newell’s first scrum back amongst things is unsteady on the set – and the tighthead is deemed the cause, free-kicked for an early push.

TRY! NEW ZEALAND 39-3 Argentina (Ardie Savea try, 68 minutes)

09:38 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Ardie Savea is over! He’s taken the captaincy with Sam Cane off and the decision to go for the corner proves a good one.

The maul is felled illegally by Argentina before it can get going, but Dane Coles is again patient, waiting for a hole to open. He finds it, caught at the thighs by a tackler but holding his balance to wait for Savea to arrive in support and score from all of three metres. Jordie Barrett can’t convert but suddenly the All Blacks are eyeing 50.

New Zealand 34-3 Argentina, 66 minutes

09:38 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Coles shepherds the maul forward, biding his time at the back as it begins to lumber forward, first slowly, then making more rapid inroads in Argentine territory. Argentina pinged – Beauden Barrett will ask the forwards to have another go, this time from six metres or so out.

New Zealand 34-3 Argentina, 64 minutes

09:36 , Harry Latham-Coyle

That try-scoring pass is virtually Sam Cane’s last act. He is warmly received by a Hamilton crowd that know him well as Dalton Papali’i replaces the All Blacks captain. A much-needed, much-improved performance from the flanker.

Beauden Barrett is on, too, and Dane Coles.

TRY! NEW ZEALAND 34-3 Argentina (Jordie Barrett try, 62 minutes)

09:32 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Coast-to-coast from the All Blacks! All that huffing and puffing on the New Zealand line and Argentina are cut open immediately on defence.

New Zealand tap a scrum penalty quickly inside their own 22 and Rieko Ioane cuts the sharpest of lines into space. He gambols upfield and his teammates come with him, in excellent support as the centre is eventually chopped down in the Argentina half.

Through the bodies come with Finlay Christie exploring the spaces, the scrum half providing razor-sharp service. Sam Cane makes the bust and has Jordie Barrett to his left – the full-back trots beneath the posts for another brilliant All Blacks try.

New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 59 minutes

09:31 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Immediate impact from Brodie Rettalick! Reunited in the second row, old warhorses Retallick and Sam Whitelock lead the defensive drive at the maul, decisively repelling the Argentina eight attempting to put the pressure on.

Out to the backs…knocked on! The New Zealand defensive line was set and up swiftly with that maul in retreat, and Argentina’s scoring chance goes awry.

No try! New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 58 minutes

09:29 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Three more quickfire penalties against New Zealand, but have Argentina scored with the advantage? It’s the long arm of Tomas Lavanini reaching through….

No try! There was a sliver of space for the big lock Lavanini to reach his left arm through, but he can’t maintain secure enough grip of the ball as Richie Mo’unga seeks to close it.

Still, back for one of those penalties. Into the left corner as Brodie Retallick replaces Shannon Frizell in the All Blacks pack – Scott Barrett will go to six.

YELLOW CARD! Fletcher Newell is sent to the sin bin, New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 56 minutes

09:26 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Fletcher Newell collapses the maul and off he will go for a ten-minute sit down!

Little patience from Nic Berry – New Zealand drop to 14 men.

New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 55 minutes

09:26 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Held up! So close for Argentina, so nearly a magnificent score from Thomas Gallo! The beefy loosehead is a rather nifty athlete and shows his skills, weaving between two tacklers, moving Caleb Clarke aside and dragged down two metres out by Ardie Savea. The next Argentine carrier is held up over the line – back for a penalty, poked into the corner with discipline becoming a problem for New Zealand all of a sudden.

New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 54 minutes

09:24 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Momentum has just swung slightly in Argentina’s favour – now a tackler is adjudjed to have not rolled away quite quickly enough from a ruck as Sam Cane contests on halfway. Benjamin Urdapilleta pushes his side onwards.

New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 52 minutes

09:22 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Brilliant from Pablo Matera! The crowd celebrate, thinking that new man Bower has scored as the referee holds an arm aloft and blows his whistle, but the prop is comfortably short of the line and Matera in expert jackal position to earn the penalty.

New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 51 minutes

09:21 , Harry Latham-Coyle

George Bower and Fletcher Newell are introduced to the New Zealand front row as they choose a scrum. Finaly Christie, on for Aaron Smith, feeds it as the All Blacks launch another offensive on the Argentina line…

New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 51 minutes

09:19 , Harry Latham-Coyle

A shrill blast of the whistle from Nic Berry – two more penalties against Argentina in that set of phases, the second for offside, and that is four in six minutes against Julian Montoya’s team. Berry warns the Argentina captain that his side must improve their discipline – and grants Montoya’s request to have a chance to gather his mates for a chat.

New Zealand 27-3 Argentina, 50 minutes

09:18 , Harry Latham-Coyle

New Zealand have really liked that chip today, Richie Mo’unga this time dropping ball to right toe and challenging the space between the lines for Argentina. Will Jordan chases and brings Gonzalo Bertranou to floor, allowing his teammates to drive over-the-top of the ball with a forthright counter-ruck and win another All Blacks penalty. Mo’unga finds the corner.

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