The much-anticipated grudge match between the Springboks and Ireland is just weeks away, and coach Rassie Erasmus believes the pressure is firmly on the Irish.

Ireland has dominated South Africa in recent meetings, winning the last three encounters. Their last victory came in the opening match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France. However, that defeat ultimately fueled the Springboks’ determination, propelling them to reclaim the Webb Ellis Cup. This mirrored their 2019 World Cup campaign, where a loss to New Zealand didn’t prevent them from ultimate glory.

While Ireland fell short in the 2023 quarter-final against the All Blacks, who themselves narrowly lost to the Boks in the final, Erasmus sees the upcoming series as an opportunity.

“If there’s one team that has the upper hand, it’s them. We haven’t beaten them since 2016,” Erasmus admitted.  

Following the Ireland series, the Springboks will face Portugal in Bloemfontein before diving into the Rugby Championship against New Zealand, Australia, and Argentina.

“Looking forward to the Rugby Championship, the young players who put up their hands against Wales and during the series will certainly be looked at for selection,” said Erasmus, who was reappointed as the head coach of the Springbok. 

The picture courtesy of SA Rugby