The Springboks are laser-focused on the breakdown battle ahead of their clash with Italy in Turin this Saturday. Captain Siya Kolisi emphasises the hard work put in to counter the Italian threat. Remember that July tour? Italy unsettled the Boks, even in that 42-24 win. They dominated the breakdown then, and the Boks know they can't let that happen again.
Italy's recent 26-19 victory over Australia proves they're still a force to be reckoned with, especially when the ball's on the ground. Kolisi told reporters, "It been one of the big areas we spoke about this week. We know how good they are. We have done our homework and we must look after it (the ball) properly."
South Africa has made a whopping 11 changes to the starting XV from their win against France. Kolisi sees this as a prime opportunity for players to prove themselves ahead of the highly anticipated match against Ireland in Dublin on 22 November. "We all want to play against Ireland and this is an opportunity for us to show what we are capable of doing as a team. But we know how hard this game will be," Kolisi stated.
Keep an eye on 22-year-old Ethan Hooker, moving from wing to inside centre alongside 23-year-old Canan Moodie. Kolisi is full of confidence: "I back him (Hooker) everywhere. He just loves rugby. He is taller than me and probably the same weight as me. He is OK with the physical side of things, so I am looking forward to seeing what him and Canan are going to do."
In related news, Bongi Mbonambi is set to join the Springbok squad in Europe as a standby forward ahead of the Ireland Test. Neethling Fouche is also tipped to join as a tighthead prop, especially with Vincent Koch sidelined due to injury. The Boks are beefing up for a tough encounter!
Key Takeaways:
- Breakdown battle is crucial against Italy.
- Opportunity for players to impress before Ireland clash.
- Ethan Hooker gets a chance at inside centre.
- Mbonambi and Fouche called up as standby forwards.