Wallabies Captain Allan Alaalatoa says they will be better equipped to handle the physicality of South Africa as the teams prepare for wet and slippery conditions in the second Rugby Championship Test in Perth.
Australia were thrashed 33-7 last week in Brisbane and left shell-shocked by the heft of the world champions, who particularly dominated at the scrum.
It was a reality check after Australia had won three straight matches against Wales and Georgia to kick-start new coach Joe Schmidt's tenure.
With thunderstorms and up to 40mm of rain forecast, an uncompromising match is expected at Optus Stadium as attention focuses on Australia's battle of strength with the renowned bulk of South Africa.
Alaalatoa says for some of the boys, it was the first time playing the Springboks last week.
He says it is a great challenge, a tough learning for them after last weekend as they did not execute the plan that they wanted, and technically they need to be better.
The Wallabies will face a revamped South Africa, who made 10 changes, with only backs Cheslin Kolbe, Jesse Kriel and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, and forwards Elrigh Louw and Pieter-Steph du Toit retaining their starting places.
South Africa has prioritised rotating players and building depth ahead of the subsequent four Tests in the Rugby Championship against New Zealand and Argentina.
Coach Rassie Erasmus may have one eye towards the next World Cup in 2027, to be held in Australia, but South Africa will still boast 14 World Cup-winning players for their first ever Test at the 60,000-seat Optus Stadium.
Source: rugby.com.au
