Donnelly Aims to End All Blacks’ Dominance in Bledisloe Cup Clash

The stage is set for a highly anticipated showdown as Tom Donnelly prepares to face the All Blacks for the first time as a coach. The Wallabies will host their formidable rivals at Eden Park on Saturday, September 30, 2023, aiming to end New Zealand’s longstanding dominance in the Bledisloe Cup. New Zealand has not lost at this venue in 31 years, with their last defeat occurring against Australia in 1986.

Donnelly, who joined the Wallabies in July 2023, brings a wealth of experience to the team, having previously coached Otago from 2020 to 2024 and served as an assistant with the Highlanders. His role with the Wallabies involves overseeing the lineout, working alongside Mike Cron, who manages the scrum. Both Cron and Donnelly share a background in New Zealand rugby, making their collaboration particularly noteworthy as they strategize against their home nation.

Reflecting on his new role, Donnelly has stated that he feels no mixed emotions about facing the All Blacks. “I suppose when you’re in professional sports, whatever team you’re involved with, you get emotionally invested in it pretty quickly,” he commented. “I’m just trying to do a really good job here with the Wallabies and really enjoying it.” His focus is on ensuring that the team is well-prepared to deliver a performance they can be proud of.

The significance of this match extends beyond individual pride; it is also about reclaiming the Bledisloe Cup. Australia has not held the trophy since 2002, with New Zealand dominating the annual contest since 2003. For many in the current Wallabies squad, including winger Max Jorgensen, the prospect of winning the cup represents an opportunity to change the narrative of Australian rugby. Jorgensen, who was born after Australia last lifted the trophy, expressed his determination to contribute to the team’s success.

“It’s ultimately about becoming an 80-minute team,” Jorgensen said, emphasizing the need for sustained performance after recent struggles with slow starts in matches against Argentina. The Wallabies understand that to wrest the trophy from the All Blacks, they must secure victory at Eden Park and maintain their momentum in the subsequent match in Perth.

The upcoming clash not only highlights the competitive spirit between the two nations but also showcases the shifting dynamics within rugby. As Donnelly prepares his squad, the focus will be on executing a game plan that challenges the All Blacks’ legacy while igniting a renewed confidence in Australian rugby. With the stakes high, both teams are poised for what promises to be an electrifying encounter on Saturday.