Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick and captain Pieter-Steph du Toit have expressed their excitement about taking part in what they described as a “special tournament” against the All Blacks in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus admits there is a huge desire within the South African camp to make a winning start against New Zealand in Saturday’s opening Test, which carries significant importance in a highly anticipated four-match series.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has explained the thinking behind his selections for the opening Test of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry against New Zealand at Ellis Park on Saturday, stressing that combinations, player form and long-term fitness all played a role as South Africa prepare for a demanding four-Test series.
Current World Rugby Player of the Year Malcolm Marx has developed a healthy respect for the All Blacks’ leading hookers after years of facing them at both Super Rugby and international level.
Springbok centre Damian de Allende will become the 10th player in history to earn 100 Test caps for South Africa when the Boks face the All Blacks in the opening match of the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry in Johannesburg on Saturday.
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie has recalled captain Ardie Savea, halfback Cam Roigard, and outside back Will Jordan for the opening Test of the four-match “Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry” series against the Springboks at Ellis Park on Saturday.
Springbok assistant coach Felix Jones expects an intense, highly tactical encounter when South Africa faces New Zealand at Ellis Park on Saturday in the opening Test of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
Malcolm Marx knows better than most what it means to face the All Blacks. He made his Test debut against New Zealand and has experienced the unique challenge of taking on one of rugby’s greatest sides on the international stage more times than any other team he has faced.
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus admits South Africa has eagerly awaited the opportunity to finally focus on their highly anticipated Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against New Zealand, while stressing the respect they have for their greatest rivals.