Schmidt Leaves Wallabies with Gifts of Canham and Lonergan 2026

The Wallabies ended the Joe Schmidt era with a 57-10 win over Italy, a performance that highlighted the gifts of Josh Canham and the depth left for incoming coach Les Kiss. Schmidt's final match saw Australia produce precise, powerful rugby, with Canham completing a hat-trick and the pack dominating the maul.

Schmidt's Legacy: A Mixed Record with Promising Talent

Under Schmidt, the Wallabies won 12 of 31 Tests, a winning percentage under 39%. While this ranks among the lowest for professional-era coaches, the context of inheriting a team from Eddie Jones is crucial. Schmidt handed out 27 debuts in 31 Tests, broadening the player pool significantly.

Josh Canham: The Standout Forward

Canham was Australia's best player in the Nations Championship home leg. The 25-year-old lock carried dynamically, worked accurately at the lineout, and scored three tries against Italy. His performances signal a bright future for the Wallabies' forward pack.

Comparing Wallabies Coaches (Professional Era)

Key Takeaways from Schmidt's Farewell

• Josh Canham emerged as a dynamic lock with a hat-trick performance.
• The Wallabies snapped a six-Test losing streak with a dominant 57-10 win.
• Schmidt leaves a deeper squad, with 27 debuts across 31 Tests.
• Les Kiss inherits a team with potential but still lacking heavyweight forwards.
• Italy were swept aside, showcasing Australia's best attacking display in months.

FAQ

The Wallabies' performance against Italy offers a glimpse of what Les Kiss can build on. With players like Canham and Lonergan, the future holds promise, even if the rebuilding process remains incomplete. Fans will hope this victory signals a turning point for Australian rugby.