Even with the seasoned Joe Schmidt at the helm as head coach, former Wallabies full-back Greg Martin is skeptical about the revival of Rugby Australia's fortunes. Following a disappointing start against the British and Irish Lions, Martin sharply criticized the tactical approaches and the selection decisions made by Schmidt.
The financial outlook for Rugby Australia may look promising with the upcoming 2027 Rugby World Cup and the current Lions tour helping to clear massive debts, but Martin argues that monetary gains won’t translate to success on the field unless the team starts delivering wins, particularly against their arch-rivals, the All Blacks. “They thought Joe Schmidt was the saviour. Not even Joe Schmidt can save it, we don’t have the cattle at the moment,” Martin expressed, highlighting a lack of talent as a critical issue.
“If we don’t compete properly against these Lions, no one cares. And more so, rugby doesn’t get good in Australia again and doesn’t get popular until we beat you bastards [the All Blacks].”
Martin, however, holds a glimmer of hope for the Wallabies in the upcoming second Test against the Lions in Melbourne. He believes with the right referee to enforce the rules strictly and a few strategic changes to the lineup, Australia could level the series. “We are definitely going to do it… If we get a good referee who keeps them onside and we get those four or five changes, we can do it,” he optimistically noted.
Despite the financial relief from hosting major rugby events and clearing debts, Martin stresses that the real measure of success for Australian rugby will be breaking New Zealand's stronghold on the Bledisloe Cup. Until then, rugby will struggle to stand out among other sports in Australia. This stark reality paints a challenging picture for Schmidt and his squad, as they navigate the high expectations and the intense pressure to turn the tides for Australian rugby.