Australia Edges Fiji in Newcastle Rugby Test

Australia narrowly defeated Fiji 21-18 in Newcastle, securing victory with a last-minute try from captain Harry Wilson in their only warm-up ahead of the British & Irish Lions series. The Wallabies overcame memories of their 2023 World Cup loss to Fiji but faced a scare when starting fly-half Noah Lolesio was stretchered off with a head injury, though early signs indicate it may not be severe. Fiji rallied from a 14-0 deficit with tries by debutant Salesi Rayasi and Lekima Tagitagivalu, nearly claiming their first win over Australia on Australian soil since 1954. Despite the result, Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt admitted the team's performance was unconvincing and stressed the need for improvement before the Lions tests. The match highlighted Australia's ongoing preparation challenges and Fiji's rising competitiveness. Both teams displayed strengths and weaknesses as they look ahead to major upcoming fixtures.