Springboks motivated to take on slumping Wallabies in Tri-Nations opener - Rugby News
The Springboks are ready to face the Wallabies in the inaugurating match of theTri-Nations Cup, kicking off on July 23, in Sydney. Wallabies found themselves at the lowest point of their rugby history as they lost their one-off test match against the weaker
side of Samoa last Sunday, in Sydney.
Earlier, the Springboks had been criticised by Australian officials for declaring a number of key players unfit for the opening two matches of the Tri-Nations Cup. However, the side declared on Friday July 22 is all set to put the Wallabies on the back foot
in the opening game of the tournament.
The Springboks have a comparatively younger side than the Wallabies after they rested a number of their key players who were struggling with various injuries sustained in the prolonged season of Super Rugby. The South African Rugby Union has rested as many
as 20 front line players’ form the opening two matches of the tournament.
Talking to the reporters on July 22, the South African skipper, John Smit, said that despite large injuries his side is looking forward to their initial victory against the Wallabies. He further said that, “I'm looking for a win, that's why we're here. We
don't really have the opportunity for any warm-up games or finding our feet or getting any combinations going. There's four games before the World Cup. It's important to get some kind of momentum, some kind of confidence, make sure that the combinations you
are playing are functioning ...”
Meanwhile, Smit admitted the fact that his side could face heavy odds in the opening two games which could be more irritating for the selectors. He also said there is a huge risk involved in sending a young side into the Tri-Nations Cup. The skipper shifted
his conversation and said that players like Bjorn Basson and Lwazi Mvovo will be required to put in big efforts for victory. He added that, “We've got two really fast, exciting wings and without a flyhalf who's operating they're not going to see much ball.So
we not only need him to kick goals.”
Springboks will take on Wallabies in the opening match of Tri-Nations on July 23.