Springbok wing Cheslin Kolbe said the Springboks are determined to make the country proud as they look forward to Saturday’s Castle Lager Incoming Series decider against Wales in Cape Town.
The Springboks defeated Wales 32-29 in the opening Test at Loftus Versfeld before suffering a heart-breaking 13-12 defeat in Bloemfontein last week, meaning Saturday’s match at the DHL Stadium will determine the series winner.
Kolbe said the message was clear for the team regarding what they have to do on the field on Saturday and said: “We are professional athletes, and we have to understand everyone’s role. We want to go on the field and make everyone proud.
“We are South Africans, and we will draw energy from playing in a final because we know what that means for us as players and the country.”
“We have an amazing backline and forward pack, and the coaches have a good plan in place, so we need to go out and execute that. Hopefully, if the forwards put in the hard work, there will be space for the backs.”
Kolbe was delighted for Jaden Hendrikse, who earns another start at scrumhalf alongside experienced flyhalf Handre Pollard and said he would play a vital role in guiding play on the field.
“I am excited for Jaden,” said Kolbe. “There is a big responsibility on him to give direction to the team and whenever there are kicks, we as wingers have to chase. Wales have good players, and we know what they can bring to the match.”