Pollard Guides Springboks to Redemption Win Over Wallabies

Cape Town – Rugby Championship Round Two

Handré Pollard produced a commanding display at fly-half as South Africa returned to winning ways, defeating Australia 30–22 in Cape Town to keep their Rugby Championship defence alive.

After being stunned 38–22 in Johannesburg last weekend when they attempted an expansive, ball-in-hand style, the world champions shifted back to their strengths. This time they played for territory, turning the contest aerial and suffocating the Wallabies with pressure. Pollard was at the heart of it, kicking 15 points from three penalties and three conversions, while also controlling field position with astute tactical kicks.

The Springboks crossed through Canan Moodie, Kwagga Smith, and Eben Etzebeth, each try a reward for dominance in the air and at the breakdown. Australia showed plenty of fight, with tries from Corey Toole, Max Jorgensen, and Brandon Paenga-Amosa keeping them in the hunt, but they could not capitalise late, with James O’Connor missing chances from the tee.

For South Africa, this was a pragmatic response — less flamboyant, more clinical, and ultimately more effective. They now turn their attention to a heavyweight battle with the All Blacks in Auckland, while the Wallabies return home to face Argentina in Townsville.

FT: South Africa 30 – 22 Australia