Rugby-Wallabies turn to fresh legs as Schmidt seeks positives in tough season

Rugby Union - Rugby Championship - South Africa v Australia - Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa - August 16, 2025 Australia's James O'Connor in action with South Africa's Kwagga Smith REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File Photo

DUBLIN (Reuters) -Australia are hoping fresh legs in their team will give them a much-needed lift as they continue to labour through the last weeks of their season, coach Joe Schmidt said on Thursday.

He made six changes to the team beaten by Italy in Udine last Saturday for this weekend’s clash against Ireland in Dublin, including a return for veteran flyhalf James O’Connor and powerful centre Len Ikitau.