Australia vs South Africa Rugby | Springboks Edge Wallabies 30–22 in Cape Town

Image Credit: AP News / Halden Krog

South Africa showed their power game in Cape Town with a 30–22 win over Australia, keeping the Rugby Championship wide open after a shaky start in Johannesburg. Just a week earlier the Wallabies stunned the Springboks with a 38–22 victory at Ellis Park, but this time the world champions returned to their strengths. Handré Pollard was flawless from the tee, landing every kick and punishing Australia’s missed opportunities, which ultimately decided the contest.

The match was physical and intense from the opening whistle, with both teams committed to attack. South Africa crossed through Canan Moodie, Kwagga Smith and Eben Etzebeth, while Australia responded with tries from Corey Toole, Max Jorgensen and Brandon Paenga-Amosa. Still, whenever pressure moments arrived, the Springboks leaned on their set-piece dominance, aerial kicking game, and breakdown control to push the Wallabies back. Etzebeth’s second-half surge and the impact of South Africa’s bench swung momentum firmly in their favor.

Australia still showed plenty of positives under new coach Joe Schmidt. Their attack looked sharper, young talents like Corey Toole brought real spark, and Max Jorgensen finished clinically. But missed kicks and a lack of composure in crucial stages left them chasing. With a reliable kicker like Pollard on the other side, the difference was clear.

The two-match series between the sides is now level at 1–1, with Australia taking the first test and South Africa striking back in Cape Town. The Rugby Championship continues next month with the Springboks facing the All Blacks and the Wallabies lining up against Argentina. For South Africa, this result restores belief in their title defense, while Australia will need to tighten their discipline, improve their exit game and sharpen their goalkicking if they want to stay in contention.

This clash was another reminder of why Australia vs South Africa rugby is always such a compelling rivalry. The Springboks found their identity again when it mattered most, and the Rugby Championship is set up perfectly for more drama in the weeks to come.