Australia coach Schmidt signs off with win over Italy but losing record

Australia achieved their largest victory in ten years, crushing Italy 57-10 in the Nations Championship in Perth on Saturday. This win marks a fitting farewell for departing coach Joe Schmidt, though he leaves the role with a losing record.

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If you look back two and a half years, I think we’ve definitely made progress. The players are more connected, the leaders are more vocal, and they are the critical mass internally. Our set-piece is getting better. Our fundamentals around the carry-clean, our connection, and our defence, they were all in evidence tonight.

Despite the resounding win, which was Australia's biggest since a 65-3 victory over Uruguay in the 2015 World Cup, the Wallabies have struggled in the new competition. This was their first win in three matches, following six consecutive defeats. Schmidt acknowledged progress over his two-and-a-half-year tenure, citing improvements in player connection, leadership, set-piece, and defense.

Schmidt, 60, is stepping down to prioritize family, particularly caring for his son Luke, who has severe epilepsy. He concludes his time with the Wallabies holding a record of 12 wins and 19 losses. Les Kiss will succeed him, tasked with preparing the team for the upcoming World Cup, which Australia will host starting in October next year. Kiss has 15 months to get the team ready, beginning with a two-test series against Japan and a busy schedule of 11 tests this year.

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I think he’s handing over the squad to Les in a really strong position, and ultimately, we need to continue that trajectory and that progress to close the gap on the win/losses.

Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh believes Schmidt has positioned the squad well for Kiss, stating that progress needs to continue to close the gap with top teams. Schmidt expressed gratitude for the fans' support throughout the team's difficult period, emphasizing its positive impact on the players.

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We’ve had massive support again tonight, and it makes a huge difference to the players. They know they’ve got to keep earning it, but I’m loving the support we’ve had. So thanks very much.