Sione Tuipulotu says Scotland must arrive at Murrayfield with a mindset to win – and to resist the psychological pressure that often accompanies a clash with the Springboks’ powerful forward-laden bench.
The Springboks have opted for a bold 7-1 split on the bench for this encounter, stacking seven forwards and just one back among the replacements.
This selection includes Siya Kolisi, powerhouse hooker Malcolm Marx, and towering lock RG Snyman, with Eben Etzebeth set to lead the Boks out on Sunday evening.
It marks the first time South Africa has employed this tactic since the 2023 World Cup final against the All Blacks, a match where their forward firepower ultimately secured them the Webb Ellis Cup.
“The most important thing is that, when we get off the team bus, we have to be here to win,” Scotland captain Tuipulotu stressed in a pre-match press conference.
“Many of the games against the Boks are lost even before the first whistle has been blown. We have to make sure that this will not be our fate.”
The Springboks’ 7-1 bench split has not fazed the Scots, said Tuipulotu, who believes it aligns with the Boks’ well-known approach to play to their strengths.
Scotland have countered with a 6-2 split on their bench, signalling their intent to meet fire with fire.
“The Boks have done 7-1 before, and are the only team in world rugby to do so. I think it’s just a case of them playing to their strengths. Our focus this week was inwards.”
Despite the absence of some key players in the Bok lineup, Tuipulotu dismissed any notion that the Springboks were fielding a ‘B-team’, expressing full respect for the talent at Rassie Erasmus’ disposal.
“I won’t just say that the Boks have given up anything. I don’t think the Boks are sacrificing much talent if they choose Makazole Mapimpi instead of Cheslin Kolbe. We are preparing as if the Boks are going to be at their best.”
Photo: Jean Catuffe/Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
