Springboks Motivated To Win Battle Of The Breakdown Against Italy

As the Springboks gear up for their clash against Italy, a refreshed and relatively unfamiliar lineup will take centre stage at the Allianz Stadium in Turin.

With several new combinations — particularly in the pack and more so, the front row – senior players like captain Siya Kolisi and Franco Mostert will have to step up to steady the group and build confidence ahead of match day.

The Springbok captain and newest addition to the hundred-club emphasised that their preparation throughout the week will help ease any nerves and tension going into the game on Saturday.

“It’s the work we’ve done in the week – coach Daan has been working us in the scrum, coach Deon in the lineouts, Duane in the contesting,” he explained.

“We had a lot of tough work, we had full contact sessions with the forwards in the week, in the mauling and the maul defence. That’s where we really get to know one another more than in conversations on the side. That’s where we get our confidence, knowing we are prepared and we can go. For the senior guys, it’s about leading by example. We feel good as a group.”

The strength of the Italians at the breakdown appears to be well known, with opposition teams aware that focus and attention need to be applied to stop them dominating the area. It is an area that has also caught the eye of the Springbok players and coaches. 

“It’s been one of the big focus points for us this week,” Kolisi said. “They were good at it against us as well when they toured South Africa. We’ve done our homework, and we’ll make sure that we look after that area properly this weekend.”

Following the Springboks’ 32-17 triumph against France last Saturday in Paris, Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick was questioned on the work the coaching team has done to get the players in the mindset to perform at the same level they had for the French Test match.

Stick said, “It’s a tough week – we’re playing Italy, who came off a good result against Australia, so that adds motivation for our players.”

In relation to the players, Stick said, “Guys are getting opportunities – Pollard and Canan have been working hard and now get their chance to play. We make sure we don’t just play for ourselves but for the 60 million people back home. Guys are motivated because it’s a big game, and Italy is getting better. Those who haven’t played yet are excited for their first run. You can never underestimate them, but we are prepared.”

Captain Kolisi, one of only two captains to win back-to-back World Cups and who retains his place in the starting team, spoke about guiding a squad with several changes.

“We’ve looked back at the games we’ve played against Italy and we know what’s required,” Kolisi explained. 

“Many guys who haven’t had chances before are getting opportunities now. We all want to play against Ireland, so everyone wants to put their hand up.”

Kolisi highlighted the stability in key areas: “Handré will control things and look after the backs. Canan becomes a different person when he takes leadership at the back. It’s good to have Edwill back, and Kurt-Lee and Gaza bring continuity after playing last week.”

But the captain was clear about where the tone must be set.

“The pack is important this weekend. We know what we need to do – especially at the breakdown, which is looked after by the forwards. We have to make sure we’re up for it.”