Ardie Savea has opened up on his battles with Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth, highlighting the intense rivalry and respect between the Springboks and All Blacks.
The Springboks and All Blacks rivalry is one of the most thrilling in rugby, with last year’s World Cup final in Paris another memorable clash in their long history.
In an exclusive interview with Jim Hamilton on RugbyPass TV’s Walk the Talk show, Savea was asked about his on-field battles with Bok enforcer Etzebeth and brought up Kolisi.
“I don’t even play rugby to hurt people. I just play because I love it,” said Savea. “Eben is a beast. I’m a fan and we had a few moments against each other, but not intentionally.
“I always try to smash Siya because he is a good mate of mine. People always get weird because we’ve got a great relationship, but we represent two big rugby nations.
“It’s like boys – when you are best mates you want to smash that guy.
“I always try and smash Siya, but it’s not intentional with Eben. We just happen to be two players that go bloody hard.”
Reflecting on the intense Springboks-All Blacks rivalry, Savea said he found his South African counterparts to be “tough and niggly”.
“They are just big guys and quality players,” Savea added. “They are just running straight and trying to smash you.
“It’s pretty simple and they have amazing backs and wings that can just go for days. If you don’t bring your A-game against them, then it’s going to be a long day.”
Photo: Chris Hyde/Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
