Australia are the final team Wales will face at the Principality before the Six Nations
WALES are looking to create some momentum for their Six Nations campaign by ending the Autumn international series with a win over Australia this weekend.
After starting the Autumn with a heavy 38-point loss to New Zealand and a narrow defeat in a much-improved performance against South Africa, they recorded a first win by beating a 14-man Fiji 38-23 on Saturday.
It appears Wales are on a positive trajectory and a win with their last game would give them some vital and much-needed momentum going into the Six Nations.
Australia are yet to win a game in this year’s internationals, as they face their third home nation this weekend.
The Wallabies kicked off their November with a narrow loss to Scotland at Murrayfield, by just two points. A heavier defeat followed, at the hands of England at Twickenham.
For Australia, a win is vital to give some confidence to a clearly dejected team.
Team/injury news
Australia’s woes won’t be eased through the absence of their captain Michael Hooper. They confirmed through Twitter: “Scans have confirmed skipper Michael Hooper has a midfoot sprain which will rule him out of Saturday’s Test against Wales.”
Consequently, prop James Slipper will be taking the reins for the Wales game.
For Wales, it seems unlikely that many of their front-line players will be available for Saturday. Forwards coach Jonathan Humphreys told Westgate sport’s Journalist Alex Bywater: “We are as deep as we can go in nearly all positions.”
Josh Adams is a doubt with a calf injury and Will Rowlands and WillGriff John are both unlikely to play, as they left the field on Saturday with head-injuries.
Star men
Louis Rees-Zammit
Position: Wing
Caps: 15
Points: 45
The Wales’ man-to-watch can be no other than their exciting 20-year-old winger. His pace and direct running style, as seen through his outrageous try against Fiji on Saturday, may cause Australia some issues.
Kurtley Beale
Position(s): Centre, Fly Half, Fullback
Caps: 94
Points: 156
In contrast to Wales’ star man, Kurtley Beale is a seasoned pro, at 32. Just short of 100 caps, Beale is vital to the Australian back-line, adding vital experience.
How and when to watch
Kick-off is at 5:30 at the Principality stadium and the game will be broadcast on Amazon Prime.
