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Wales Online
Wales Online
Sport
Matthew Southcombe

Australia take Wales for granted because they've beaten us so many times... but they could be in for a surprise

On the latest episode of the Welsh Rugby Podcast, the team were joined by Sydney Morning Herald writer Tom Decent to discuss Australia's Rugby World Cup squad.

The Wallabies have finalised their 31-man group and it includes the injured David Pocock and the uncapped Jordan Petaia.

We also discuss how Wales are perceived Down Under and hold our own selection meeting ahead of the game against Ireland next week.

Here's a flavour of what was said on the podcast...

Andy said: "The one thing I've noticed, trawling through the Aussie press today is that there are hardly any mentions of Wales.

"They're talking about winning the World Cup. Wales? It's as if they've never heard of us.

"No.1 in the world rankings, Six Nations kings, Grand Slam - all they're talking about is New Zealand, England and South Africa.

"To me, straight away, that shows where they think the real dangers lie.

"I think because they've beaten us so many times over the years, they tend to take us for granted and they've written off that game last autumn.

"They came here with a bit of a sub-standard squad, there was a bit of an end-of-season feel about them, Wales still only narrowly won that game.

"I honestly think the view down there is 'it's only Wales, we can beat them when it comes to a proper match' but they could be in for a surprise this time."

Simon said: " It's going to take a while to change perceptions, isn't it?

"Hopefully, we will keep this run going over, not only the year or the World Cup, but over a number of years. That's how you change perceptions.

"There's a reason why New Zealand are revered because they've been producing results for so many years.

"Australia beat Wales year after year, so you can understand from their perspective why they would only focus on the overall record.

"Perhaps there isn't as much focus down there on the Six Nations. At the end of the day, Wales are currently No.1 in the world and that's to be respected.

"I hope that when they go to the World Cup, they can deliver a performance that justifies that status."

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