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Rating the Wallabies and All Blacks ahead of Eden Park showdown

It’s on again. Australia arrive at Eden Park full of confidence, aiming to end their curse at the famous ground under new coach Les Kiss.

By Paul Cully · Sydney Morning Herald

Published: Friday, 9 October 2026 at 8:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Paul Cully rated both squads ahead of Australia's Eden Park clash with New Zealand, narrowly favoring the All Blacks.
The writer awarded the All Blacks an overall squad score of 170 compared to 167 for the Wallabies.
Max Jorgensen, Len Ikitau, and Rob Valetini earned the highest marks for Australia with nine out of ten.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Writer Paul Cully assessed and rated the starting lineups and benches of both the Wallabies and the All Blacks ahead of their clash at Eden Park. Australia enters the match with momentum under head coach Les Kiss following an unbeaten series in Argentina and a win against the Springboks, while New Zealand aims to protect its home fortress.

Cully scored New Zealand slightly ahead with a total of 170 compared to Australia's 167. He highlighted Max Jorgensen, Len Ikitau, and Rob Valetini as top performers for the Wallabies, but noted that New Zealand's bench strength could provide a decisive edge against an Australian reserve unit missing several key players.

Read the full article on Sydney Morning Herald

Rating the Wallabies and All Blacks ahead of Eden Park showdown

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