Wales are the most difficult opponents we will face, says Rassie

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus expect a big Welsh onslaught on Saturday. Photo: Phando Jikelo/ANA

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus expect a big Welsh onslaught on Saturday. Photo: Phando Jikelo/ANA

Published Nov 20, 2018

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CARDIFF – Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus on Monday described Wales as their “most difficult opponent” of their November tour to the United Kingdom and France.

The Boks finish their four-match tour on Saturday when they face the Welsh at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff (start at 7.20pm).

Wales have managed to build an impressive unbeaten run of late at their home ground, while the Springboks failed to win any of their last three encounters in Cardiff.

Since losing by a single point to England at Twickenham in their tour opener, the Springboks have managed to beat France in Paris and Scotland in Edinburgh in their subsequent Tests.

Training day 1 in Cardiff, by far the coldest day of the tour so far. Sbu Nkosi on the move in the afternoon session. #boksontour #CastleLagerOutgoingTour #WALvRSA #Springboks pic.twitter.com/JLSXAU9LaY

— South African Rugby (@Springboks) November 19, 2018

Speaking in the Welsh capital on Monday, Erasmus was very clear on the challenge that awaits his Springbok side on Saturday.

“In our view, Wales are definitely the most difficult opponent we will face on this tour,” emphasised Erasmus. “Warren (Gatland) has managed to build a superb side, with lots of experience and they are playing a good, balanced game, plus they have good depth and quality in their squad.

“They put Tonga away last weekend and the previous week they defeated Australia, so we are preparing ourselves for the most difficult Test of this tour.”

Erasmus also said that Eben Etzebeth, the most experienced member of the tour squad, will be assessed on Tuesday afternoon to prove his fitness in order for him to be considered for selection.

“Last week I said it was a 50/50 (for him to be ready), I’m a little bit more optimistic this week,” said Erasmus.

Tour smiles. #Springboks Louis, Gio, Sergeal and Cheslin in good spirits following Monday's late afternoon field session at the Treforest rugby field in Cardiff. #boksontour #CastleLagerOutgoingTour #WALvRSA pic.twitter.com/dMb2fIjG0q

— South African Rugby (@Springboks) November 20, 2018

Meanwhile, World Rugby announced that Springbok captain Siya Kolisi has received a Citing Commissioner Warning for an incident that happened in the 31st minute of the Test against Scotland on Saturday at Murrayfield.

Erasmus said it was a good thing to know the outcome so early in the week. “He’s our captain and to have him available from the beginning of the week is good because sometimes these things can take a while as they look for clarity.”

The Springboks started their preparation with a field session on Monday afternoon, and they will do so again on Tuesday and Thursday, when Erasmus will confirm the Springbok match-23. 

African News Agency (ANA)

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