Wallabies boss Joe Schmidt insists the Springboks are not only an exceptional side but are also benefiting from some controversial talks.

Australia’s head coach referred to the recent test series against Ireland and specifically the disallowed try for James Lowe.

It proved decisive as South Africa went on to claim a 27-20 triumph in the opening encounter before Ireland hit back in the second game.

Schmidt was effusive in his praise for the Boks but felt the two-time defending world champions needed no more help.

Controversy

“South Africa, they look pretty impressive. The level and the intensity of the Irish series, it was entertaining,” he told reporters. “I think most people would have been entertained by the one-point results, and especially Ciaran Frawley who nailed the two late drop goals to win the second Test.

“There was a bit of controversy with James Lowe’s try not being allowed. It’s not the first time for South Africa, they tend to be a bit lucky from that perspective.

“They don’t need too much luck to fall their way, they make a lot of their own luck with the quality of the player and the connection they have.

“They have guys who have played a lot of Test matches together and that breeds confidence and almost an unspoken trust among the players – they know what each other is going to do.

“They have an expectation that they will do well and I think based on the way South Africa have played they have done things well.”

Springboks v Wallabies: Predicted lineup as ‘terrifying’ pack look to overpower Australia

The Springboks have a poor record in Australiaand especially at Suncorp Stadium, which is the venue for the opening game Rugby Championshipbut they are heavy favorites for next Saturday’s game.

New attack

Rassie Erasmus has spoken of developing his style, particularly in attack, and there were signs of development in the Ireland series.

It wasn’t perfect though, and there could be an opening for the Wallabies with the Boks still getting used to the ideas of new attack coach Tony Brown, but Schmidt believes the visitors will play in the vein of their World Cup success.

“I’m not sure there’s too much of a difference. I’ve worked with (former Boks head coach) Jacques (Nienaber) and Rassie when they were at Munster and I was with Ireland,” he said.

“I know them both well and they are very tight. Jacques and Rassie would have worked closely together. With Rassie continuing, there would have been the same emphasis in the way they do things.

“They really defend in a very similar way. It becomes more of the same. They really try to put pressure, whether they have the ball or not.”

READ MORE: Rugby Championship preview: Wallabies continue revival under Joe Schmidt but fall far short of title push