Damian Willemse can’t wait to work with coaches Jerry Flannery and Tony Brown, as the Springboks look for “something different” to beat Ireland and New Zealand this year.
The South Africans, who are top of the world rankings after their defence of the Webb Ellis Trophy at France 2023, host the No 2-ranked Ireland in two Tests in July.
Rassie Erasmus’ charges will lock horns with the All Blacks in back-to-back clashes on home soil in the Rugby Championship.
The Bok coaching team, led by Erasmus, are due to assemble in Cape Town on 4 March, when a 43-strong contingent, including double world champion Willemse.
Speaking a wide-ranging interview with News24, Willemse emphasises the significance of the 2024 clashes against the Irish and Kiwis while describing the acquisitions of defence specialist Flannery and attack guru Brown as “really exciting”.
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“For us, being No 1 in the world, it’s a massive incoming series against Ireland. It’s going to be an epic Test. And we obviously have to get ready as soon as possible,” the Bok playmaker said.
“They’re already playing in the Six Nations and working on their game… the last time we saw each other [as the Springboks] was in November. So, there’s definitely stuff that we’re going to have to [work] and improve on.
Willemse added: “Coach Jerry came into [our system] last year and worked with us a little bit before the World Cup. Coach Tony is going to bring some of that New Zealand flair.
“I think they’re going to add something different and a new dimension to the Springbok side.
“Coach Tony will definitely come with a lot of pluses and everyone is really excited to have him. He’s a great coach. He played a little bit before my time, but I’ve seen some of his highlights.
“He’s had so much success with the Highlanders and he’s a well-known and very respected coach. He will definitely make a big difference in the Springbok environment.”
Photo: Gareth Fuller/PA/BackpagePix
The post Boks finding ‘new ways’ to stay No 1 appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Src: sarugbymag.co.za
