‘Hungrier Than You Think’: Porthen Hits Back At Wallabies Test Critics

Springbok prop Zachary Porthen was raring to go for the opportunity to face the Wallabies in Perth on Sunday, saying all the players were up for the challenge at Optus Stadium in what will be their final Test before the second leg of the Nations Championship in November.

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has made 13 changes to the starting team, with Porthen and fellow prop Jan-Hendrik Wessels set to pack down in the front row alongside hooker Johan Grobbelaar.

The former Junior Bok captain, however, said every player in the squad was thrilled by the opportunity to represent the country in the green and gold once again.

“This is Test rugby,” said Porthen.

“Everyone who goes out on the field knows how much it means to themselves and to the country. That in itself is enough to get you up for any game.

“We’ve had time to get used to Australia without playing, but with changes in the lineup this week, a lot of the guys are hungrier than you might think.

“The players want to get back on the field to prove themselves and to show what this means to us.”

Asked about the biggest lessons he had learned since becoming part of the Springbok set-up and working under the current coaching staff following his Test debut against Japan last November, Porthen said: “It has been a big step up, to be honest, so it’s difficult to put my finger on one thing.

“With each challenge, you adapt to something different, and personally, if one takes what the coaches say on board, you just dive in and try to give your best.”

The Springboks wrapped up their main training block of the week in Terrigal on Thursday, where they will be based during their 2027 Rugby World Cup training camp next year, before travelling to Perth for the match.

They will have their traditional captain’s run at Optus Stadium on Friday.

The match kicks off at 11h45 (SA time) and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.