Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Wallabies vs Ireland delivered a dramatic start to Australia’s 2026 campaign, with Ireland edging the Wallabies 33-31 in a Nations Champions Test at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Saturday night.
Sam Prendergast kicked the winning conversion with three minutes left after Thomas Clarkson powered over, ending a 10-try match that changed lead seven times.
For more background on the Australian selection story, read Jock Campbell’s Wallabies recall before Ireland, which set the stage for his return at fullback.
Australia Show Fight In Sydney
Australia looked far sharper than the side that went winless on its four-Test European tour last November.
Jock Campbell, back in Test rugby after 1316 days away, helped create the opening try for Dylan Pietsch in the third minute before scoring one himself.
Ireland stayed close through Cian Prendergast and Josh van der Flier, both finishing from close range as Australia struggled to halt Irish power near the line.
Josh Canham then answered with a pick-and-drive try, while Ryan Lonergan backed up Max Jorgensen’s intercept and 35-metre burst to score on debut.
Ireland Hit Back Late
The Wallabies were hurt by Jamison Gibson-Park’s try after the halftime siren, which came after Ireland worked downfield from a scrum 80 metres out.
Hugo Keenan struck soon after halftime, beating Max Jorgensen and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii as Ireland briefly threatened to take control.
Tate McDermott changed the mood after replacing Ryan Lonergan, taking a quick tap and beating six defenders to put Australia ahead 31-26.
Dan Sheehan later appeared to score, but the TMO ruled James Ryan had obstructed Rob Valetini in the lead-up.
Ireland still found the final punch through Thomas Clarkson, before Ben Donaldson missed a long penalty attempt that could have won it for Australia.
Ireland retained the Lansdowne Trophy, while Australia left with a bonus point and proof that Joe Schmidt’s side can trouble a top-ranked opponent. More official rugby updates are available through Rugby Australia.
