Boks Duo: No Grudge Match Against Ireland

Springbok duo Thomas du Toit and Grant Williams insist that Saturday’s clash against Ireland is not a grudge match, despite the high-stakes nature of the upcoming showdown at the Aviva Stadium — a venue where the four-time world champions are yet to win under head coach Rassie Erasmus.

Ireland toured South Africa last year in a two-test series, which ended in a one-all draw. The Springboks won the first Test at Loftus Versfeld 27-20, but the Irish bounced back with victory at Kings Park Stadium, with Jack Crawley breaking the Springboks’ hearts with a late drop goal.

When asked whether the fixture carries the feel of a grudge match following last year’s drawn series between the sides, du Toit was quick to dismiss the idea. 

“The media would like to see it that way, but we don’t see it that way,” he said. 

“What we’ve done well in the last couple of months, in the two competitions, is to take each match and put it into its individual box and not think about the past too much – good or bad. We try to focus on the specific game for that specific week. We’re putting a massive emphasis on this week, like we have done for every other week.” 

Williams echoed the sentiment, “As Tommy said, we focus on every match the same. If we play France, we focus on France. It’s every week for itself.” 

With Pieter-Steph du Toit, Malcolm Marx, and Ox Nché all securing World Player of the Year nominations – Nché making history as the first prop ever shortlisted – du Toit expressed admiration for his teammate. 

“Ox is a special person and an incredible rugby player. We’re very grateful that there is some recognition going his way. Everyone understands the type of player he is and how well he plays the game. To get this recognition is very special and I’m very glad for him. If I had it my way, I would have him win it.” 

When asked if he was eyeing a nomination of his own next year, du Toit chuckled: “I won’t push my luck. He is the first prop nominated, and I don’t know when the next one will be.” 

Comparing Ireland to the opposition faced so far on tour, du Toit highlighted their organisation and precision.  

“There are similarities to France and Italy – both unbelievably physical sides,” he said.  

“What might be different is a bit more of a structured game. From my time playing here and speaking to the guys playing here currently, they really understand their game and their set-phase plays. They know who they want to target, but it doesn’t change anything for us. We do our homework as best as we can and adapt on the day.” 

With Irishmen Jerry Flannery and Felix Jones contributing from their experience in their native land, du Toit noted their value. 

“They’ve definitely given good insight – they know a couple of the players and have worked with a couple of them. But again, it’s all about us doing our homework on them, the individual players, and the way they play, like we do every week. Ultimately, we need to put that all to the test on Saturday.” 

On RG Snyman’s role, who plays for Irish giants Leinster in Ireland, he added: “From a forwards perspective, he has quite a bit of expertise. He knows the players very well, gets coached alongside them and trains with them, so he definitely has some personal insights into the team and the players that play for Ireland. That’s very beneficial. They also have Jacques [Nienaber] there, so they also get some insight.” 

When asked about a potential battle with Ireland’s in-form scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park, who had a fantastic game in Ireland’s win over Australia, Williams offered praise. 

“He is up there with the best 9 in the world at the moment. His influence on the game is really good. If I get selected, that will be a good battle.” 

Reflecting on his time in England and Europe, du Toit said the experience has elevated his game. 

“It’s been a game changer for my personal game – it’s been exceptional. I’ve learnt so much over the last two-and-a-half years. Playing in this type of weather week-in and week-out is very important.” 

Du Toit elaborated on the strength of the competition in England. 

“The Premiership is a tough competition. You feel like you’re playing a final every weekend because the teams are so good and everything is closely knit together. It’s advantageous when games like this come around.” 

The Springboks have previously stated that every game on this tour feels like a final. Considering their recent record against Ireland and with Du Toit alluding to that again, Saturday in Dublin shapes up as yet another defining moment on this tour – one that the World Cup and Rugby Championship champions will be desperate to win. 

Erasmus will name the squad on Thursday for Saturday’s clash