The Springboks are set to face Italy at Allianz Stadium in Turin on Saturday with a near full-strength side, as head coach Rassie Erasmus looks to build winning momentum early in the Nations Championship. This comes after a loss to Australia in Perth, where Erasmus rolled the dice with a less experienced team. The starting XV for Saturday's match boasts 835 Test caps, with the 23-man squad having over 1 000 caps between them.
Erasmus explained that the decision to name an experienced team was not difficult, citing the importance of building momentum and combinations ahead of tough clashes against France and Ireland. He also noted that the team had limited training time, with a first training session only taking place on Monday afternoon. Despite this, Erasmus expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform well on Saturday.
The Springboks are targeting another trophy after winning Rugby's Greatest Rivalry against the All Blacks. Erasmus emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum, especially with the World Cup just a year away. He also highlighted the need for players to trust and have faith in the team's selections and strategies.
The Italian team is dealing with several injuries to senior players, including centres Tommaso Menoncello and Juan Ignacio Brex. However, Erasmus insisted that the Springboks are taking the match seriously, with the Nations Championship cup being a competition that everyone is vying for. He also mentioned that the team is looking to build for the World Cup, but also wants to be in the running for the Nations Championship.
Erasmus had a chance to discuss the upcoming match with Italy's coach, Gonzalo Quesada, in London. Both coaches emphasized the importance of trying out combinations, but also maintaining momentum and trust in their players. The Springboks will be eager to build momentum ahead of their next match against France in Paris.
The team selection was made with the aim of giving players game time and building combinations, especially with the World Cup approaching. Erasmus noted that some players got game time in the last match against Australia, but now it's about building momentum and preparing for the tough matches ahead.
The Springboks will face France next Friday in Paris, and Erasmus is keen to allow the team's combinations to find each other again. With a short turnaround, the team will need to be well-prepared and build as much momentum as possible.
Key points
- Rassie Erasmus names near full-strength side for Nations Championship opener against Italy.
- Springboks looking to build momentum and combinations ahead of tough clashes against France and Ireland.
- Team selection made with aim of preparing for World Cup and maintaining momentum.
