If their slow start to 2023 wasn't enough, Eddie Jones' new-look Wallabies squad for the Bledisloe Cup has served as a timely reminder of the need to perform as they prepare for the All Blacks.
Jones confirmed an updated squad on Thursday as attention turns to the two-Test series with the Kiwis.
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Fullback Tom Wright was the biggest omission after losses to Argentina and South Africa, whilst Test regulars Pete Samu and Reece Hodge were left out as a host of injured players return to the fold.
Prop Angus Bell is amongst several who have either recently returned or are in line for selection for next week's MCG Test after overcoming long-term injuries.
The need to perform is only heightened by the fact the series represents the last chance to impress Jones before he names his squad for September's World Cup.
"You're a professional sportsman, you get paid to do a job and if you don't do the job I guess you get left out,” Bell told reporters on Thursday.
"It's week-to-week and if you have bad performance against the All Blacks this week, your position will be questioned.
"At the Wallabies level it's do or die. If you don't perform you don't get picked, it’s a performance-based sport.
“…I look at it as some people would die to be a Wallaby and some people try to work their whole lives to be a Wallaby and don’t get there. Every time you get to play for the Wallabies or represent your country it’s do or die.”
Last week's Test against the Pumas was Bell's first appearance since hobbling off the field during the Super Rugby Pacific opener against the ACT Brumbies.
His impact was felt instantly, bursting through several Argentina defenders with a bruising carry ten minutes after he was subbed on.
“It was exciting (to be back). Obviously I was pretty gutted with the result. It’s a bittersweet feeling,” Bell said.
“It’s been a while since I got a full game and saw out the time I was on the field. It’s been a long journey (so) I was very happy to get off in one piece.
"It’s bittersweet. We want the result, we want to win as a team.”
