The Australian Wallabies are looking to extend a six-match unbeaten run as they face the New Zealand All Blacks in the opening match of the 2026 Bledisloe Cup. The highly anticipated rugby union international is scheduled for kick-off at 7.10pm local time (5.10pm AEDT) at Auckland's Eden Park.
Australia has climbed to sixth in the world rankings, a significant improvement from their lowest position of 10th after their pool stage elimination from the 2023 World Cup. Lock Jeremy Williams has stated that Australia believes they can end a 27-year wait and win the Webb Ellis Cup at home next year.
The All Blacks, however, face a formidable injury list, with flyhalf Richie Mo’unga and winger Fehi Fineanganofo ruled out. Mo'unga is sidelined with a calf tear, while Fineanganofo is experiencing delayed concussion symptoms. Other key players like Ardie Savea, Luke Jacobson, and Anton Lienert-Brown are also injured. Damian McKenzie will shift to five-eighth, with Beauden Barrett moving to fullback.
Eden Park presents a significant challenge for the Wallabies, as the All Blacks have maintained an unbeaten record there since 1994, a streak of 53 Tests. Australia's last victory at the venue was in 1986.