Bundee Aki vows to push his game to new heights as Ireland gear up for Australia clash

When you’ve racked up 66 caps, earned four British‑and‑Irish Lions Test appearances and still finds yourself on the bench, it’s a bitter pill to swallow. That’s exactly the spot 35‑year‑old Bundee Aki finds himself in as the Irish squad prepares for a high‑stakes showdown with Australia at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium.

The Connacht stalwart, born in Auckland and a naturalised Irishman since 2017, has been a fixture in the back‑row of the national side for nearly a decade. Yet after starting both Lions Tests against Australia last summer, he watched Stuart McCloskey slip into the inside‑centre role for the bruising loss to New Zealand in Chicago two weeks ago. The result? A bruised ego and a firm resolve to “reach another level” – a phrase he’s been repeating in the locker room and to the press.

Why the dip matters

Aki’s own admission was brutally honest: his performances haven’t hit the mark he set for himself. “Probably not at the point where I want it to be,” he said, shrugging off the criticism with the kind of dry humor that’s become his trademark. The man who was once in the running for World Rugby Player of the Year in 2023 now finds himself fighting for a spot on the match‑day 23 against a Wallabies side that’s been on a roll.

What’s driving the dip? Aki points to the fierce competition in the Irish midfield. “We’ve got Robbie Henshaw, Garry Ringrose, Stu McCloskey and now Tom Farrell all knocking on the door,” he noted. “If you’re in the mix, you’ve got to grab the chance with both hands.” It’s a classic case of talent begetting more talent – the Irish setup is a breeding ground for centres who can break a line, offload in traffic and lock down defence.

The competition landscape

Take a quick look at the current roster:

• Robbie Henshaw – the seasoned play‑maker who’s been a mainstay since 2016.
• Garry Ringrose – the elusive, off‑the‑ball runner whose footwork can make defenders look foolish.
• Stuart McCloskey – the surprise package who impressed in the New Zealand test with his defensive grit.
• Tom Farrell – the rising star from Leinster, fresh off a solid performance against Japan.

Each of these players brings a unique skill set, meaning the coaching staff can rotate them without losing momentum. For Aki, that’s both a blessing and a curse – the chance to learn from the best, but also the pressure to prove he still belongs.

Age is just a number?

At 35, many would start thinking about retirement, especially with the 2027 Rugby World Cup looming – Aki will be 37 by then. Yet he brushes off age concerns with a calm confidence. “Coaches understand how players are,” he said, crediting the strength‑and‑conditioning team and nutritionists for keeping him in peak condition. “It’s about turning up, doing the recovery work, and staying mentally sharp.”

His perspective mirrors that of seasoned veterans across sports: experience can offset the inevitable physical decline if you manage your body right. Aki’s daily routine reportedly includes targeted mobility drills, ice‑bath sessions and a diet designed to sustain energy levels through the grueling international calendar.

What the Aviva test means

The upcoming match against Australia isn’t just another fixture; it’s a litmus test for the Irish midfield. Aki has been named as a replacement, meaning he could be called upon at any moment. The Wallabies, known for their high‑tempo, off‑load game, will test the Irish defence and, more importantly, the depth of the centre partnership.

If Aki gets his minutes, it’ll be a chance to showcase the “another level” he’s been talking about. A quick burst of line‑breaks, a crisp pass that sets up a try, or a textbook tackle could remind the selectors why he earned those Lions caps in the first place.

Building a new era

When asked where Ireland stands midway through the World Cup cycle, Aki painted an optimistic picture. “We’re building nicely, learning on the go. There’s a transition period, but the lads are finding their feet and starting to play the way we want to play.” The sentiment reflects a broader narrative: Ireland is in a sweet spot, blending seasoned campaigners with fresh talent, all while experimenting with a more expansive style.

Coach Andy Farrell has been vocal about the need for “healthy competition” to drive performance. The message is clear – no one is safe, and everyone must constantly evolve. For a player like Aki, that pressure can be a catalyst for a late‑career renaissance.

Key takeaways for fans

What should the Irish faithful keep an eye on as the Aviva Stadium lights blaze on Saturday?

• Centre rotation: Watch how Farrell shuffles Henshaw, Ringrose, McCloskey, Farrell and Aki throughout the game.
• Defensive solidity: The Wallabies love to test the midfield with quick hands; a solid tackle from Aki could be a game‑changer.
• Leadership moments: Even off the field, Aki’s experience can guide younger players during high‑pressure moments.

Whether he ends up on the pitch or cheering from the bench, Aki’s determination to push his boundaries adds an extra layer of intrigue to a match that already promises fireworks.

In the end, rugby is a sport of fine margins – a single break, a perfectly timed pass, or a defensive stand can swing the outcome. For Bundee Aki, it’s about seizing that marginal advantage and proving that, even at 35, he can still turn heads and, perhaps, rewrite the narrative of his own career.