Joel Stransky says Ireland’s supremacy will only be measured when they tackle the back-to-back world champion Springboks in the Republic this year.
England will face Ireland at Twickenham on Saturday in the fourth round of the Six Nations, with Andy Farrell’s charges two wins away from retaining their Grand Slam title.
The Boks kick off the 2024 season on Saturday, 22 June against Wales in London before returning home for a two-Test series against the Irish on 6 and 13 July, in Pretoria and Durban respectively.
Despite Ireland’s dominance in the Six Nations, Stransky believes the real evaluation of their standarding in relation to Rassie Erasmus’ world-beaters will be in those clashes.
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“There’s no doubt they’re a great side and are still growing,” the former Springbok flyhalf was quoted by Bok Squad. “They are the real deal, I love watching them.
“Their lineup is formidable, they play fast, they use the width of the field and every player is a skilful ball handler, each capable of cleaning out and rucking, carrying and running into space, offloading out the tackle and making great decisions.
“It’s quite unique. I don’t think any other team in the world plays quite like it and, rightly, they’re one of the top two teams in the game.
“But I think we will judge them when they come to South Africa.”
Photo: Julian Finney/World Rugby via Getty Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
