Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick emphasizes the importance of a strong start against Wales at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday (15:00).

This match marks the beginning of a new cycle leading to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

The Boks face Wales in front of a massive crowd exceeding 60,000 at a neutral venue, promising a thrilling spectacle.

“It will be important for us to continue building on the aspects we believe works for us, and to ensure that we do not attempt to try too many new things,” said Stick. 

“It’s also vital that we pitch up physically and defend and kick well because those are key aspects to winning matches. So hopefully everything will come together nicely tomorrow.  

“We really want to start the season well. We have a long and tough season lined up, so it would be great to do well and start the season on a positive note.” 

Prior to their successful World Cup defense last year, the Boks dominated Wales 52-16 in August, securing a record number of points against them on Welsh soil. This match marked captain Siya Kolisi’s return from injury, who will be absent this time due to scheduling limitations. Loose forward Pieter-Steph du Toit will captain the Boks for the second time of his career.

This encounter holds significance for Vincent Koch, the former Saracens front-rower, who earns his well-deserved 50th Test cap.

While the Boks dominated Wales in their previous meeting, Wales secured their first-ever win in a series match in South Africa in 2022 in Bloemfontein. It’s important to remember that the Boks fielded an experimental side and ultimately won the series 2-1.

This has left Stick to speak of Wales, saying: “They are a tough and well coached team, and they have a strong kicking game, so we have to play well for the full 80 minutes to get the desired result.” 

Picture courtesy of SA Rugby