Oliver Smith’s double helps Australia U18 rally to beat NZ Schools in thriller

Australia U18 secured a dramatic 40-33 comeback victory against New Zealand Schools at St Paul's Collegiate in Hamilton. Despite trailing 19-12 at halftime, Dale Roberson's side mounted a physical second-half surge to overpower the hosts in an end-to-end clash. Oliver Smith was instrumental in the victory, scoring crucial tries off the back of Australia's dominant rolling mauls.

New Zealand built their initial advantage through tries from Jack Brock, Matthew Fleming, and Nico Stanley. However, Australia responded with second-half scores from Smith, Harrison Asi, and Izak Holmes, alongside kicks from Wilson Ruthven, effectively sealing the win despite a late consolation try by New Zealand's Carlos Nordstrom.