Jesse Kriel and Gerhard Steenekamp said the Springboks expect a massive onslaught from New Zealand in the first of two Tests between the old foes in Mzansi on Saturday.
Rugby’s greatest rivalry will be showcased this week on the Highveld when the world champions tackle the All Blacks in the Rugby Championship at Ellis Park. The action moves on to Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, 7 September.
Rassie Erasmus’ charges have won the last two clashes – including the 2023 Rugby World Cup final in Paris – and a victory in Johannesburg will see them equal South Africa’s record winning streak over the Kiwis set in 2009.
However, New Zealand have enjoyed a solid run at Ellis Park, winning three of the last four Tests at the venue, dating back to 2013.
After two rounds in the 2024 Rugby Championship, the Boks lead the standings on 10 points after bonus-point wins over the Wallabies in Australia. Addressing the media on Monday, Kriel said this week’s showdown would present a different threat for the team.
“The back-to-back wins against Australia were great, but that’s behind us, and we now have an exciting challenge ahead against New Zealand,” the two-time World Cup-winning centre said.
“Our focus now is to train as hard as possible. This is a massive Test for both teams, so it’s important that we are well prepared and have our systems in place.”
“The intensity with which we play, and our effort is all that we can control,” Kriel added. “Both teams are in a similar situation with new coaching staff and players after the World Cup final, so this week will be about who prepares the best and uses their opportunities on the day.
“They have unbelievable players with a great skill set, and they play a fast game, so we know what we are up against this weekend.”
The four-Test Steenekamp, meanwhile, is thrilled about the possibility of tackling the men from the Land of the Long White Cloud: “It would be a massive honour to play against the All Blacks if I get the opportunity, and it’s certainly a chance I hope to grab with both hands.
“They have a good scrum and set piece, and we’ll make sure we work hard and do our best up-front to counter the challenge they provide. It’s every young boy’s dream who plays rugby to face the All Blacks, so it would be special.
“Fortunately, I have the opportunity of training against some of the best props in the world on a weekly basis, and I try to learn more from them each day.”
Photo: Johan Orton/Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
