Kiss era begins: Wallabies face Japan in Osaka seeking to end six-Test losing streak

Les Kiss takes charge of the Wallabies for the first time on 8 August 2026, a Nations Championship Test against Japan in Osaka. He replaced Joe Schmidt ahead of the 2026 season, inheriting a side that lost six consecutive Tests before beating Italy. Kiss retained the bulk of Schmidt's squad, with Aidan Ross and Miles Amatosero earning first starts. A 36°C forecast and typhoon threat complicate preparation.