Wallabies defeat Lions in final Sydney Test, deny series sweep

The Wallabies prevented the British and Irish Lions from completing a clean sweep on their Australian tour by winning the third rugby Test 22-12 in Sydney, overcoming difficult weather conditions including a lightning delay. Under coach Joe Schmidt, Australia displayed grit, resilience, and improved performance compared to earlier Tests, despite missing several first-choice players, and took an early lead that the Lions could not overcome. Schmidt had prepared the team to remain physically and mentally engaged during the lightning break, which contributed to their composed and accurate play in the chaotic match. Veteran scrum-half Nic White received a fitting send-off in his final Test, with the Wallabies' victory restoring some national pride after their disappointing 2023 World Cup campaign. Lions coach Andy Farrell acknowledged the frustration but praised his squad’s overall tour achievement despite the loss. The match highlighted a promising future for the Wallabies and a hard-fought conclusion to a fiercely contested series.