Team of the Week: Rugby Championship Round 4

Meanwhile, Los Pumas showed composure under pressure to silence a record Allianz Stadium crowd, with Santiago Carreras’ nerveless boot proving the difference against a fast-finishing Wallabies side. With both matches producing historic narratives, the Championship table has been shaken once again. All four sides now have two wins and two losses to their respective Rugby Championship efforts, with the upcoming fortnight set to decide the closest campaign in recent memory.

Kellaway was everywhere, reading the game and making decisive interventions in defence while sparking attack. His 64th-minute break set up a crucial yellow card for Carreras, and he scored a try while assisting two others. With two line breaks and two defenders beaten, he carried Australia’s backline when they needed it most. His combination of vision, pace, and finishing made him the standout back for the Wallabies in a match that nearly slipped away.

Kolbe lit up Wellington with his pace and creativity. Early on, he almost scored from a clever grubber kick, then shortly after made a brilliant interception to put the Boks ahead. His second-half finish off the right foot was precise and fearless. Even after leaving the field early, Kolbe had left a mark on the game with his tries, tactical kicks, and relentless threat in open space, shaping the match in South Africa’s favour.

Sua’ali’i carried the Wallabies in attack, scoring a strong first-half try and creating another with a clever assist. His eight carries, two line breaks, and two defenders beaten made him a constant threat, while his eight tackles showed commitment in defence. Even under pressure, his ability to find space and exploit gaps kept Australia competitive and dangerous, proving why he remains one of the team’s most influential and dynamic backs.

Willemse impressed with smart running and decision-making at inside centre, breaking the line and creating opportunities for teammates. When forced to move to fullback after an injury, he adapted seamlessly, fielding high balls and keeping the Boks on the front foot. His awareness was key in the match-sealing try, showing both composure and vision. Willemse’s performance demonstrated his versatility and his ability to influence the game wherever he was positioned.

Daugunu’s impact was instant and devastating. Coming on late, he scored two tries in ten minutes, beating defenders with pace and timing. His awareness to exploit gaps and finish chances brought life to Australia’s backline when they needed it most. Even in a narrow defeat, Daugunu’s instinctive finishing and electric running made him one of the most exciting performers in the round. Honourable mention is in store for Leroy Carter, who marked his All Blacks debut with a try.

Carreras directed the Pumas with poise and precision. His kicking game kept pressure on the Wallabies and earned seven penalties, providing the margin of victory. Beyond his boot, he linked play effectively, created chances, and stayed calm under pressure. Carreras' performance carried the asterisk of a yellow card, yet Argentina maintained composure with the fly half steering the ship upon his return. Carreras was the central figure in Argentina’s clinical and controlled performance.

Garcia was a constant presence at scrum-half, keeping the game moving with quick, accurate service. His box kicks tested the Wallabies’ chase, while his passing kept Argentina’s attack fluid. When he went off, the Pumas struggled to maintain the same rhythm, underlining his importance. Garcia’s combination of tactical intelligence and reliability made him a standout in the visiting side’s midfield engine room.

Ox Nche once again dominated the scrum, often forcing New Zealand backwards and creating attacking platforms for the Boks. He earned a penalty but might have expected more in a performance where his sheer power unsettled the All Blacks front row. His work around the park was efficient, and his presence in the set-piece gave the Boks confidence and control, establishing a foundation for a dominant team display.

Argentina skipper Julian Montoya was immense, combining pace, power, and intelligence. He scored a try with a chargedown and impressed at the breakdown, winning key turnovers. The Pumas captain led by example, carrying repeatedly and dictating the pace of the game. His performance was as physical as it was intelligent, making him the cornerstone of Argentina’s forward dominance in a crucial, high-pressure match.

The 'Tongan Thor', Taniela Tupou delivered a 40-minute masterclass in power and intensity. His contact work was brutal, and he made multiple tackles and carries that kept the Wallabies steady under pressure. The front-row battle suited his “empty the tank” approach, showing why Schmidt trusts him to set the tone in big matches. His sheer physicality and consistency were key in helping Australia remain competitive despite a difficult first half.

Jeremy Williams made a stunning impact in both attack and defence for the Wallabies. He claimed seven lineout takes, disrupted Argentina’s throws, and made 15 tackles with one turnover. He carried the ball effectively in tight moments and remained disciplined despite a late penalty. Williams’ physical presence and work-rate ensured Australia stayed competitive, and he was a key factor in maintaining structure in a fiercely contested forward battle.

With Eben Etzebeth out of the fold, Ruan Nortje’s work rate was relentless for the Springboks, particularly in the tight exchanges. His presence at the lineout forced a turnover that directly led to a pivotal try for Willemse. Nortje’s tackling, carrying, and set-piece work ensured the Boks dominated in both attack and defence. His tireless contribution helped South Africa impose themselves physically, giving the backs clean ball and creating momentum throughout the match.

With an honourable mention to Siya Kolisi, you cannot look past Juan Martin Gonzalez Samso's shift. The Saracen made a huge impression in the first 50 minutes, carrying hard, tackling effectively, and providing a strong presence at the breakdown. His departure coincided with some disruption to Argentina’s lineout, showing how crucial he was to the forward effort. Gonzalez’s combination of power, work-rate, and rugby intelligence set a platform for the Pumas’ controlled victory, making him a standout in a dominant forward performance.

Back to his very best, Pieter-Stepth Du Toit was omnipresent across the park, making tackles, carrying hard, and supporting every phase. He was involved in key plays, including the setup for Kwagga Smith’s try, using strength and awareness to manipulate the faltering Kiwi defence. The back row's endurance and intensity were evident in every quarter, ensuring South Africa’s back row dictated the tempo and applied constant pressure on New Zealand throughout a commanding performance.

Jasper Wiese returned from a lengthy suspension and made an immediate impact. The number eight dominated in contact, but it was his offloads and link play that kept the All Blacks defence back-peddling. Wiese also made crucial defensive hits, including a standout tackle on Jordie Barrett.