The Springboks were delighted with their impressive start to the Castle Lager Rugby Championship after bagging two bonus-point wins in Australia, but Cheslin Kolbe stressed the importance of “keeping their feet on the ground”.
“We are very excited that we could build on last week’s result, and it was particularly pleasing with all the players getting opportunities to play,” said Kolbe.
“It was special, but there’s a lot more to come. We certainly couldn’t have asked for a better start in the competition especially winning two games away from home, but we have to progress as the competition goes on."
“We’ll keep our feet on the ground and continue working hard in the weeks leading up to the games against New Zealand in South Africa which is going to be massive. As a team, we are looking forward to giving back in South Africa at the packed stadiums."
“As coach Rassie (Erasmus) said after the game, we haven’t achieved this in years, and we are definitely in a good position (in the competition), but we won’t just leave it at that and be complacent because we know the next two games are going to be tough. Tests between the All Blacks and Springboks are always tough matches.”
Kolbe praised the coaching staff for their belief in the entire touring squad and said the fact that all the players, except RG Snyman, who was ruled out with a foot niggle, received a chance to play made the tour even more rewarding.
“It was nice to see some of the young guys put up their hands and they definitely showed that they want to be here and stay here, which is exciting from a player point of view,” said Kolbe. “The belief from the coaches and players and the willingness to always give their best is a testament to what the team stands for.”
