The Wallabies are enduring their worst run since 2016, with six straight losses and nine defeats in their last ten Tests under coach Joe Schmidt. As the team prepares for a must-win clash against Italy in Perth, the pressure is mounting on a shellshocked squad that has blown halftime leads against France and Ireland in recent weeks. Schmidt's tenure, which started promisingly in 2024 with three home victories, has spiraled into a record that now threatens to define his legacy as one of the worst since 1995.
Schmidt's Win-Loss Record Under Scrutiny
Since taking over in 2024, Joe Schmidt has won just eight of his 27 Tests in charge, a win rate of approximately 30%. If the Wallabies fall to Italy on Saturday—as they did in their last two meetings in 2022 and 2025—that rate will drop below 36%. This marks the team's worst stretch since 2016, when they lost six consecutive matches under Michael Cheika. The Wallabies' worst run since 2016 has left fans and pundits questioning the decision to extend Schmidt's contract into 2026.
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Key Stats: A Comparison of Recent Coaches
| Coach | Period | Wins | Losses | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Schmidt | 2024–2026 | 8 | 19 | ~30% |
| Eddie Jones | 2023 | 2 | 9 | ~18% |
| Michael Cheika | 2016 | 6 | 6 | 50% |
As the table shows, Schmidt's record is only marginally better than Eddie Jones's disastrous 2023 campaign, where Australia went 2-9. The Wallabies' worst run since 2016 highlights a systemic decline that incoming coach Les Kiss must address.
What Lies Ahead for Les Kiss
Les Kiss, the 61-year-old incoming coach, faces a daunting schedule. His first Test will be in Hokkaido against Japan, coached by Eddie Jones, who will likely set an ambush for his former side. After a return Test in Townsville, Kiss must travel to Argentina for away Tests in San Salvador de Jujuy and Mendoza. Unlike Schmidt, Kiss won't have the advantage of home crowds or sold-out stadiums to buoy his team. The Wallabies' worst run since 2016 has created a chaotic transition, with players needing to adapt to new methods just 14 months out from a home World Cup.
Key Takeaways for Wallabies Fans
- Six straight losses and nine defeats in the last ten Tests—the worst stretch since 2016.
- Joe Schmidt's win rate could fall below 36% if Italy defeats Australia on Saturday.
- Incoming coach Les Kiss faces a brutal travel schedule with Tests in Japan, Townsville, and Argentina.
- The team's halftime leads against France and Ireland were overturned, exposing defensive frailties.
- Eddie Jones, coaching Japan, will aim to exploit the Wallabies' vulnerabilities in Kiss's first match.
FAQ
What is the Wallabies' worst run since 2016?
The Wallabies have lost six straight matches and nine of their last ten, marking their worst stretch since 2016 when they also lost six consecutive games.
Why is Joe Schmidt leaving as Wallabies coach?
Joe Schmidt's contract extension into 2026 was intended to provide a seamless transition, but his poor win rate and the team's current form have led to his exit, with Les Kiss taking over.
Who is Les Kiss, and what challenges does he face?
Les Kiss is the incoming Wallabies coach, aged 61. He must immediately travel to Japan for his first Test, followed by matches in Townsville and Argentina, without the benefit of home crowds.
How does the Wallabies' record compare to Eddie Jones's 2023 season?
Eddie Jones's 2023 record of 2-9 is the only one worse than Schmidt's since 1995. Schmidt's current win rate of ~30% is slightly better but still historically poor.
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