Rassie Erasmus Dismisses Concerns: Springboks Just as Prepared as Australia
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has brushed off concerns that his squad may be underprepared heading into the Rugby Championship. Despite facing comparatively lighter opposition in the lead-up, Erasmus is confident. With back-to-back tests against Australia on 16 and 23 August in Johannesburg and Cape Town, respectively, Erasmus believes the Springboks are ready. They will match the Wallabies both physically and tactically.
Speaking at the team’s Johannesburg training base, Rassie Erasmus addressed the extended training camp. The camp now lasts two weeks. He revealed that the decision came after coaches raised concerns that players weren’t receiving enough concentrated preparation in the early stages of the season.
Smaller Squad, Sharper Focus
The Springboks began their season with an initial 55-man squad. This squad has since been trimmed to 37 players. This reduction, Erasmus explained, allows for more focused one-on-one coaching. With fewer players to manage, the technical staff can now sharpen individual performances. They also fine-tune combinations before the championship kicks off.
While critics argue that facing lower-ranked teams like Italy and Georgia offers less of a challenge, Erasmus doesn’t buy that narrative. In comparison to Australia‘s warm-up series against the British and Irish Lions, Erasmus remains unconvinced.
Training Intensity Matches Test-Level Rugby
Erasmus emphasised that the Springboks are getting top-quality preparation by simply training against one another. “If Eben Etzebeth is scrumming against RG Snyman, or Lood de Jager is locking horns with Ruan Nortjé, that level of competition in training replicates the intensity of a Test match,” he noted.
He further highlighted the physicality of both Italy and Georgia as solid preparation platforms. Erasmus dismissed the notion that South Africa’s pre-tournament fixtures lacked value. According to Erasmus, the intensity and intent shown in Springbok training sessions are enough. They simulate eight weeks of meaningful preparation.
Respect for the Wallabies’ Build-Up
Turning his attention to Australia, Erasmus acknowledged their rigorous schedule against the Lions. He mentioned the Wallabies are fielding players accustomed to the fast pace of Super Rugby and British & Irish Lions encounters. “They may not be more talented, but they’re certainly more used to high-tempo match environments,” he admitted.
Erasmus also noted that Australia’s mindset heading into the Rugby Championship will depend heavily on the outcome of their Lions series. Whether they arrive in the country reeling from a 3–0 loss or buoyed by a narrow series defeat, Erasmus expects them to be highly motivated.
Ready for Any Wallaby Scenario
“We don’t know exactly which players will be flying to face us,” Erasmus said.
“They could be bruised and battered, or fired up and full of confidence. Either way, we’ve got three more weeks to prepare for a team that’s been forged in high-pressure matches.”
He added that the Wallabies might be dealing with injuries or fatigue after their demanding series but quickly cautioned against underestimating them. “That’s a pessimistic view. Realistically, they’ll draw strength from their last match and likely come at us even harder this weekend.”
Les Kiss Could Add a Fresh Spark
Erasmus also acknowledged the potential impact of Les Kiss, who is set to join the Wallabies coaching team. His arrival could breathe new life into the squad and present an unpredictable challenge for the Springboks.
Despite any question marks surrounding preparation, Rassie Erasmus remains calm and assertive. His message is clear: the Springboks are battle-ready, whether the Wallabies arrive as wounded lions or roaring challengers.
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