The Wallabies will face a Wales side determined to break their-decade long hoodoo in next weekend’s rugby union Test in Cardiff.
Wales have lost 13 consecutive matches against Australia since their 21-18 victory in the same city back in November 2008.
Michael Cheika’s men are out to make statement in their Spring Tour opener after only winning three of 10 Tests this year, while their hosts are on a six-match match unbeaten run following their 21-20 victory over Scotland on Saturday night – their best run since 2012.
Wales halfback Gareth Davies says his side must capitalise on their momentum by putting the tourists to the sword at the Principality Stadium.
“We haven’t had the best strike-rate against Australia, but we cannot dwell on that,” Davies said on Sunday.
“We have to train well and go into the game firing.
“We’ve had a tough couple of weeks’ training and we have a game under our belts now, so we won’t have any excuses.”
He believes Wales will benefit considerably from their win over Scotland, the first time they’ve launched an autumn series with a win since 2002, when they beat Romania in Wrexham.
“It is a big thing,” Davies said.
“We normally play a southern hemisphere team first up after they have finished the Rugby Championship.
“They have been playing together for months, and we normally come in cold. It (Scotland game) was not the prettiest of games, but there is plenty to work on and I am sure we will be better next week.”
The Test at the Principality Stadium next Saturday will also be a preview of the two sides’ Pool D clash at next year’s World Cup in Japan.
Davies said a watershed victory over Australia in Cardiff will be optimal preparation for the tournament.
“We had a good couple of wins out in Argentina in the summer. There were a couple of boys left at home, and a lot of young boys had opportunities,” he said.
“Those boys stepped up and we talk about the strength in depth we have in the squad. It’s an exciting squad to be in, and it is a massive 12 months for us building towards the World Cup.”
