‘Winning becomes a habit’: Wilson motivated for strong Wallabies start against dangerous Fiji

Sat, Jul 5, 2025, 4:02 AM
Nathan Williamson
by Nathan Williamson
Harry Wilson and the Wallabies are hungry to start the year strong. Photo: Julius Dimataga/Wallabies Media
Harry Wilson and the Wallabies are hungry to start the year strong. Photo: Julius Dimataga/Wallabies Media

Wallabies skipper Harry Wilson knows the importance of a strong performance against Fiji on Sunday in Newcastle ahead of the British & Irish Lions series.

The match against Fiji looms as their lone hit-out before taking on the combined team in a fortnight's time.

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However, the number eight is wary not to look past the dangerous Fijians, who famously upset the Wallabies at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

“Last time we played Fiji two years ago, we had a tough loss there and it's such a massive battle," he told the media.

“Obviously, we've been keeping our eyes on the Lions, watching the Super clubs play them, which is something really exciting, but for us, the Test match against Fiji doesn't get much bigger than that.

“We'll be throwing everything at them this weekend to make sure we go out there and get the result."

The focus has remained internally for the Wallabies after a promising Spring Tour included wins over England and Wales.

“Winning becomes a habit and I felt last year we had a lot of growth as a team and we put ourselves in a pretty good position by the end of the year," he believes.

“For us, we really want to expand from there and just keep putting out performances we're proud of. Starting the year against Fiji is going to be such a tough test. It's something we're ready for.

“…It’s going to be such a tough Test match and if we can come out of it with a win, it would be a really good start to our season."

Wilson once again takes the captaincy for the Test, with the skipper beyond that game yet to be confirmed.

"For us, we've got a five/six-man leadership group and any man in that group can captain the side," he added.

“I’m super excited to captain the team this week but ultimately for me, I've got to go out there and perform.

“… Playing for Australia is the best thing ever, and to honour the captain, it's something really special and something I'll never, ever take for granted.”

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