Warren Gatland is increasingly being seen as the scapegoat for the struggles of Welsh rugby. While it's clear that the Kiwi coach isn't maximizing the potential of the current Wales team, his troubled tenure may ultimately compel the nation to confront the deeper issues at play. Just over two years ago, a Wales team that bears a striking resemblance to the one set to take the field this Saturday achieved a remarkable feat by defeating the Springboks 13-12 in Bloemfontein. Under the guidance of then-coach Wayne Pivac and captain Dan Biggar, they became the first Welsh side to win in South Africa—a feat that had eluded many strong Welsh teams for six decades. They could have even clinched the series, but a narrow loss in the first Test at Loftus Versfeld, where they fell 32-29 due to a last-minute penalty from Damian Willemse, thwarted their chances. However, Wales has experienced a dramatic decline in a short span. This time last year, they were leading Argentina 10-6 at halftime in the World Cup quarter-finals, only to lose 29-17. Since then, they have not secured a victory in any Test match, apart from a non-competitive end-of-season clash against the Barbarians. This streak has now reached 11 consecutive defeats, and many anticipate it will extend to 12 following their upcoming match against South Africa. The odds heavily favor the Springboks, reflecting the pervasive sense of despair surrounding Welsh rugby at this moment. Gatland's position as head coach is increasingly scrutinized, and while he may not be solely responsible for the team's current woes, his leadership is under the microscope as Welsh rugby grapples with its challenges.

Wales is facing the prospect of setting an unwanted record as they prepare to take on Australia in Cardiff this Sunday. A defeat would mean they surpass their longest streak of Test losses, which currently stands at ten matches. The recent loss to Fiji was particularly painful, marking the tenth consecutive defeat for Warren Gatland's side and equaling the previous record set under coach Steve Hansen from 2002 to 2003. That period was notable for Wales finishing last in the Six Nations, an experience they are keen to avoid repeating. As the team gears up for the match against the Wallabies, the atmosphere is charged with concern and introspection regarding the state of Welsh rugby. The memory of their World Cup victory over Australia feels increasingly distant, and the pressure is mounting as they seek to break the cycle of losses.