The Rugby World Cup knockout stage has started early for Australia. The Wallabies are on the back foot after a loss to Fiji and cannot afford to lose their pool game against Wales in Lyon on Sunday.

The Rugby World Cup knockout stage has started early for Australia.

On the back foot after a loss to Fiji, the Australians cannot afford to lose their third pool game — against Wales in Lyon — otherwise they’ll likely be heading for their earliest-ever exit from the tournament.

Self-introspection has gripped a proud rugby nation, which has been at a low ebb for years and is wondering whether it really was the best idea to turn in January to charismatic coach Eddie Jones to lead the Wallabies into the World Cup.