In Johannesburg, the Wallabies celebrated a historic victory at Ellis Park, marking their first win at the venue in 62 years. Central to this triumph was 35-year-old James O’Connor, who made a remarkable return, leading the team as the No. 10, 17 years after his international debut. Describing the moment as a “third or fourth lifetime” in his rugby journey, O’Connor declared it his “favourite win,” although he felt uncertainty about stepping into such a high-pressure role at this stage in his career.
Reflecting on his performance shortly after the match, O’Connor acknowledged the doubts he faced coming into the camp, questioning if he could keep pace with the team’s intensity. This self-reflection seemed to deepen his appreciation for the game and the victory, which he acknowledged wasn’t flawless but held significant emotional weight for him.
In the wake of their achievement, O’Connor’s thoughts quickly shifted to the upcoming challenge in Cape Town, demonstrating his focus on continuous improvement and strategic preparation. He expressed excitement about facing the Springboks again, especially considering their status as world champions and the brutal competition that lay ahead. While injuries to key players Dylan Pietsch and James Slipper presented challenges, both O’Connor and teammate Will Skelton underscored the importance of squad mentality and unity in facing their next opponent.
As the Wallabies prepare for their next encounter, O’Connor is determined to approach the challenge with a competitive spirit and a tactical mindset. He emphasised the need for the team to galvanise and adapt, regardless of who is on the pitch, a testament to the resilience and commitment expected at this elite level of rugby.