Wallabies Lock Scores Hat-Trick in 57-10 Perth Victory

Josh Canham made rugby history look easy, scoring three tries in Australia's crushing 57-10 victory over Italy that sent beloved coach Joe Schmidt out on the highest note possible.

The Wallabies lock was the star of a dominant nine-try performance in Perth that finally broke Australia's winless streak in 2026. But Canham stayed humble, crediting his forward pack teammates for doing the hard work and leaving him with just a meter to cover for each score.

The match had special meaning beyond the scoreboard. Players dedicated their performance to Schmidt and assistant coach Laurie Fisher, both coaching their final game with the team. Inside center Len Ikitau summed up the team's motivation perfectly after the match, saying the effort showed on the scoreboard but the real goal was honoring their departing coaches.

Captain Harry Wilson praised his team's clinical execution after weeks of intense training without results. The discipline and focus finally clicked at the right moment, delivering the kind of complete performance that had eluded them all season.

The night had drama too. A scuffle between players spilled over the touchline in the second half, resulting in a red card for Italy's Marco Riccioni, who had already been substituted but ran back onto the field to join the melee. Since he wasn't an active player, Italy didn't have to play a man down.

Reserve hooker Billy Pollard added to the try count with a powerful driving maul, pushing the Wallabies past the 50-point mark. Ben Donaldson scored just before the final whistle to ice the 57-10 victory.

The Bright Side

Schmidt's final hours as coach were exactly what he hoped for. Despite lingering regrets about close losses to Ireland and France earlier in the championship, he told reporters he planned to enjoy his last moments in charge, which officially ended at midnight. His tenure may have had heartbreaking near-misses, but it concluded with a statement win that showed the progress he built.

Miles Amatosero also made his Test debut during the match, earning his first cap in a game the Wallabies will remember for years.

For Australian rugby fans who endured a winless start to 2026, this decisive victory offered hope that better days lie ahead.