Springbok Respectful And Confident, Yet Weary Of Japan

As the Springboks prepare to face Japan at Wembley, talk of this fixture being a mere warm-up has been swiftly shut down inside the South African camp. While some may have once viewed the match as a gentle start to the end-of-year tour, recent evidence has demanded full respect – and the Boks are giving exactly that.

“We give them respect,” came the message from captain Siya Kolisi. “We saw what they did last week against Australia. We’re ready. And we’re excited for Z [Zachary Porthen] too, who has a debut, and we want to make it special for him.”

Japan’s spirited showing against the Wallabies served as a timely reminder that the Brave Blossoms remain capable of unsettling tier-one opposition. That reality is not lost on the South Africans – particularly for Kolisi, who has featured in every Springbok clash against Japan, including that infamous 2015 Rugby World Cup defeat.

Reflecting on lessons from the past, Kolisi emphasised evolution, identity, and physicality.

“2015 was a different group and mindset. We need to dominate the breakdown – they play quick rugby. We know their system. We can’t play like them; we have to stick to our game plan. We are who we are.”

Assistant coach Mzwandile Stick echoed Kolisi’s sentiments, making it clear that this week has been treated as a full-blooded Test preparation, not a warm-up.

“It’s been a normal Test week. We didn’t miss any sessions. We prepared as we usually do, giving them respect,” Stick said.

“They have a good coaching staff, they have heart, and they don’t stand back for anyone. We need to execute our plan and have a good start to the tour.”

With several Springboks currently plying their trade in Japan, the South African brains-trust also leaned on inside insight.

“We went deep into their profiles because they have good players.”

Asked about the challenge of staying true to their identity, Stick reiterated the cornerstone principles of Springbok rugby.

“Our standards – we take pride in our kicking game, how we defend, and our mindset. We must start with good intent and make sure we physically pitch up.”

No South African press conference about Japan would be complete without mention of Eddie Jones – the man who masterminded Japan’s 2015 shock victory over the Boks and has never stopped poking at South Africa since. Stick acknowledged the threat.

“If you look at Eddie’s record and where he’s been, he understands our DNA. He knows which buttons to press. He’s already talking about beating us at Wembley.”

Jones isn’t the only familiar face in the Japanese setup either.

“His coaching staff is experienced and knows us – Gary Gold coached the Bulls, so they know our players.”

There is no complacency in the Springbok camp. No sense of arrogance or underestimating the opponent. Just respect, a commitment to physical dominance and their gameplan, and excitement for a new chapter – including the debut of rising prop Porthen.

South Africa know who they are. Japan is eager to cause another upset. On Saturday, identities will collide, and the Boks are determined to ensure that lightning does not strike twice and that history is not repeated.

Article by Riaz Hamed