Wallabies Dominate Italy 57-10

Schmidt’s Final Test Ends on a High Note

Joe Schmidt’s tenure as Australia’s head coach concluded with a convincing win over Italy at Perth’s stadium. The Wallabies erased a six‑test losing streak by scoring six tries and securing a 57‑10 victory. Coach Schmidt had announced his departure months earlier, staying on to help Les Kiss prepare for the transition. The emphatic result gave his final match a memorable, positive finish.

Dominance in the Opening Quarter

Josh Canham opened the scoring after just four minutes and added a second shortly thereafter. Tom Wright and Brandon Paenga‑Amosa also crossed before the 12‑minute mark, building an early cushion. Angus Bell, Len Ikitau and Canham again found the whitewash before the break, leaving the Italians trailing 38‑5. This first‑half display showcased the Wallabies’ depth and intensity.

Second‑Half Consolidation and Late Strikes

Canham completed his hat‑trick in the 52nd minute, tucked onto the back of a ruck surge, and Billy Pollard added another try to stretch the lead. Replacement Ben Donaldson finished the route, diving over after a powerful run by Rob Valetini in injury time. Italy managed only a solitary consolation try from Michele Lamaro in the first half and Montanna Ioane shortly after the break. The visitors also saw a potential score disallowed for a knock‑on in the 75th minute.

Italy’s Disciplinary Troubles

Coach Gonzalo Quesada watched from the sidelines under a one‑game ban after appealing an earlier two‑game suspension for referee criticism. Tension flared in the 66th minute when a scramble spilled into the technical area, knocking Italy’s support staff off their chairs and leading to a red card for Marco Riccioni, already off the field. The incident added to Italy’s woes, which already included a 47‑17 loss to New Zealand and a four‑match ban for Niccolò Cannone. These disruptions hampered the team’s ability to field a full squad in the Nations Championship.

What This Means for the Tournament

The victory vaults the Wallabies back into positive momentum, providing a platform for Les Kiss’s upcoming tenure. Australia’s earlier defeats to France (42‑26) and Ireland (33‑31) are now offset by this commanding performance. Italy remains winless in the opening phase of the Nations Championship, and Quesada’s suspension will limit his influence in upcoming fixtures. The result also highlights the importance of continuity and clear leadership as the tournament progresses.