Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus named a matchday squad to face Ireland in Dublin that reflects only two changes to the team that defeated France 32-17 two weeks ago.
“The majority of this team were rested last week to ensure that they recover from the physically taxing match against France, and it was always our plan to name an experienced outfit against Ireland,” said Erasmus.
“Most of these players have faced Ireland in Dublin, as well as in the 2023 Rugby World Cup and Castle Lager Incoming Series, so they understand the magnitude of this challenge and what to expect from the hosts. So, we believe this is the right group of players for this match.”
Looking at the match, Erasmus said they are expecting a physical and testing encounter.
“Ireland has been among the top-ranked teams in the last few years, and they are a force to be reckoned with at home,” he said.
“They have a good balance of experienced and exciting young players in their squad, and they pose threats up-front and with their talented backs, so it’s going to require a massive effort to beat them."
“This group of players have never won a match in Ireland before, so we know how tough it’s going to be to win here, and that will certainly motivate us. It will take a colossal effort, but we are excited about the challenge, and we know that we have to be razor sharp in all departments to get the desired result.”