Talking points as Wales bid to end their search for success Down Under

Wales have lost their last 11 Tests against the Wallabies in Australia.

Published Jul 5

Wales kick off their Australia tour on Saturday when they tackle the Wallabies in Sydney.

Warren Gatland’s team face two Tests followed by an appointment with Queensland Reds as they look to rediscover a winning formula that has deserted them since the 2023 World Cup.

Here, the PA news agency looks at some key talking points heading into the game.

Wales have gone under Down Under

Gatland welcomes reinforcements

Tommy Reffell is a key player for Wales — Tommy Reffell returns to the Wales team after being unavailable against South Africa (Joe Giddens/PA)

Life after Eddie Jones

Eddie Jones experienced a torrid World Cup as Australia head coach — Eddie Jones presided over Australia’s pool stage exit at the 2023 World Cup (Adam Davy/PA)

Ben Thomas moves to number 10

Ben Thomas has gained a first Wales start at fly-half — Ben Thomas will start at fly-half for Wales against Australia(David Davies/PA)

Aaron Wainwright hits half-century

Number eight Wainwright will become the latest member of Wales’ 50-cap club when he runs out in Sydney on Saturday, and there can be little doubt about the value he brings to Gatland’s team. Consistency is his trademark, and he has effortlessly filled a position that Taulupe Faletau made his own for many seasons, featuring in two thirds of the Tests Wales have played since he made his debut against Argentina in San Juan six years ago. Wainwright’s experience and reliability will be crucial if Wales are to make an impact Down Under, with his work alongside back-row colleagues Reffell and Taine Plumtree being a vital cog in the machinery.