Who’s Hot & Who’s Not: Lions Click, Wales Finally Win, and Springboks Spark Controversy
It was a weekend packed with big wins, tactical talking points, and long-overdue celebrations. From the British and Irish Lions’ statement victory to Rassie Erasmus’ latest controversial innovations, here’s this week’s round-up of who’s on the rise and who’s under pressure.
THEY’RE ON FIRE
Lions Finally Click
The Lions produced their best showing of the tour so far, thrashing the AUNZ Invitational XV 48-0 in Adelaide. While their opposition was clearly underprepared, the Lions were sharp, cohesive, and clinical — just in time for their much-anticipated showdown with the Wallabies.
Wales End the Drought
Eighteen straight Test defeats finally came to an end. Wales defeated Japan 31-22 in a long-awaited result that brought visible relief. Matt Sherratt’s side fully deserved the win and will hope it marks the start of a new chapter.
England Celebrate Series Win
England edged Argentina 22-17 in a tight contest to clinch a 2-0 series victory on the road. Jack van Poortvliet’s try and George Ford’s leadership stood out as a new-look England side proved they’re ready for bigger roles in the months ahead.
Springboks Spark Tactical Debate
The Springboks’ experimental plays once again stole headlines. From deliberately infringing at kick-off to force a scrum, to launching open-field lineout-style mauls, South Africa pushed the boundaries of the lawbook. Whether smart or cynical, Rassie Erasmus knows how to get results and spark global debate.
All Blacks Bounce Back
After a lukewarm win in Dunedin, New Zealand returned to form with a 43-17 demolition of France in Wellington. The All Blacks scored several brilliant tries and looked far more cohesive, setting up nicely for a series sweep.
Fiji Take Down Scotland
Trailing early on, Fiji turned up the pressure and stormed to a 29-14 win. Jiuta Wainiqolo’s solo effort and a penalty try sealed it as the Pacific islanders celebrated a memorable win in Suva.
Six Lions Call-Ups
Injuries opened doors, and six new names joined the Lions squad — Jamie Osborne, Jamie George, Thomas Clarkson, Darcy Graham, Rory Sutherland, and Ewan Ashman. While no one wants to join under these circumstances, it’s a proud moment for each of them and their rugby journeys.
Le Roux Hits 100
Willie le Roux became the latest Springbok to join the 100-cap club in their recent series against Italy. At 35, it’s uncertain how many more matches he’ll play, but his contribution to South African rugby has been immense.
COLD AS ICE
Portugal v Ireland
Ireland’s 106-7 blowout win over a semi-professional Portugal side raised eyebrows. While it set a new record for the biggest win in Ireland’s history, it left many questioning the value of such a one-sided match.
AUNZ Invitational XV
Despite being billed as a warm-up for the Lions, this Invitational side looked unfit and unready. Eddie Jones described the match as “less useful than a Barbarians romp in Easter.” The Lions dominated, but the lack of resistance did little to prepare them for the real tests ahead.
