Australia A national rugby union team

Australia A are a national representative rugby union team of Australian rugby union. They are a second-tier team to the national side, the Wallabies. Australia 'A' matches are usually used as a stepping-stone up to Wallaby selection. The team often plays at smaller venues than the Wallabies, and fringe Wallaby players usually have a chance to impress selectors during these games. The team will often feature in games in tours such as when the British and Irish Lions come to Australia.

IRB Pacific Nations Cup

Australia was originally invited to take part in the Pacific Nations Cup but decided against sending a team, stating a need to focus on domestic competition. However, Australia hosted two games in the inaugural 2006 tournament. Australia A played two matches against Fiji after the 2006 tournament, and then joined the competition in 2007.

In the 2007 Pacific Nations Cup, Australia A played 5 matches for 3 wins, 1 draw, and 1 loss. The tournament was won by the Junior All Blacks.

In the 2008 Pacific Nations Cup, Australia A played 5 matches for 4 wins and 1 loss. The tournament was won by New Zealand Māori.

At the end of the 2008, however, the Australian Rugby Union decided to scrap the Australia A team, citing financial constraints. Australia withdrew from the 2009 tournament.

See also

• The Wallabies

External links

• Australia 'A' v Fiji(when ?)
• Eight Wallabies to start for Australia A, as Campbell debuts as captain
• Strong team named for Australia A clash with Japan