This weekend’s rugby fixtures are anticipated to bring an elevated level of excitement to fans around the globe. Following last week’s enthralling matches, supporters can look forward to more exhilaration and captivating moments as teams once again pit themselves against each other.
England and New Zealand engaged in a thrilling match in Dunedin over the past weekend, while Australia secured a much-needed victory, erasing the memories of their disappointing World Cup campaign. Joe Schmidt’s men exhibited glimpses of the electrifying, fast-paced rugby that their fans desire in a win over Wales, and their resolute performance is sure to have pleased their new head coach. The substantial crowd support in Sydney would have provided a significant relief to the Rugby Australia leadership.
In the meantime, across the Indian Ocean, South Africa proved too formidable for Ireland in a captivating battle, with Irish coach Andy Farrell regretting their sluggish start against the defending world champions. This weekend, teams that suffered defeat last time will be striving to even the scores, while the triumphant teams will be aiming for a series clean sweep.
On Friday, July 12, the United States will face off against Scotland at Audi Field in Washington, with the match commencing at 6:30pm [8:30am Sat AEST, 11:30pm BST].
Team News:
Scotland has assembled a robust starting XV for their one-off test against the United States in Washington, D.C., with Adam Hastings returning at fly-half. Flanker Jamie Ritchie will earn his 50th cap, and coach Gregor Townsend has rotated his team from the previous fixture against Canada. A potent back three sees winger Kyle Steyn named as vice-captain, with Kyle Rowe stepping in at full-back. Van der Merwe is eager to match the national men’s record for tries scored.
Prediction:
On Saturday, July 13, New Zealand will take on England at Eden Park in Auckland, with the match beginning at 7:05pm [5:05pm AEST, 8:05am BST].
Prediction:
Australia will meet Wales at AAMI Park in Melbourne, with the game starting at 7:45pm [10:45am BST].
Team News:
Australia:
Wales:
Prediction:
South Africa will go head-to-head against Ireland at Kings Park Stadium in Durban, with the match commencing at 5pm [1:00am AEST, 4:00pm BST].
Team News:
South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus has elected to retain the same match-day 23 for the second test against Ireland in Durban, maintaining the most experienced Springbok selection in the team’s history. The starting lineup boasts 990 test caps between them, underscoring the depth and quality of the South African squad.
Prediction:
Argentina will clash with France at Estadio José Amalfitani in Buenos Aires, with the match starting at 4pm [5:00am AEST, 8:00pm BST]
Team News:
Argentina:
France:
Prediction:
As we eagerly anticipate the action-packed weekend, it is remarkable to witness the preparations of the teams for these thrilling encounters. Supporters worldwide are on the edge of their seats as they await the outcomes of these gripping matches. Here’s to a weekend brimming with intense rugby action!