Siya Kolisi says the Springboks have placed major emphasis on the breakdown ahead of Saturday’s Test against Italy in Turin.
The Azzurri impressed in this area of the game in their win against the Wallabies last weekend, and also frustrated the Boks at Loftus in July, with the world champions struggling to get quick ball.
Kolisi, who will lead a much-changed Bok team at Juventus’ Allianz Stadium, said the squad had addressed that threat.
“It’s been one of the big focus points for us this week,” he said. “Not only from last week, but when we played them in South Africa as well – they were really good over the ball and we struggled in that first game. That was a big reason why it was hard for us to win.
“So we know how good they are. We’ve done our homework, and we’ll have to look after that area properly this weekend.”
Bok coach Rassie Erasmus has named Marco van Staden, an openside flanker, at No 8, with Kwagga Smith providing further breakdown punch from the bench.
Assistant coach Mzwandile Stick said Van Staden’s dual role for this match as No 8 and hooker cover is the result of a long-term plan.
“Even in the 2023 World Cup he was training and doing extra skills to make sure he was ready. It’s a project that has been going on for a few years.
“They don’t call him ‘Eskom’ for nothing – he’s a very tough boy, always playing with his heart. He’s a breakdown specialist, and against Italy that’s important because they have a lot of fetchers.
“Their centres, [Tommaso] Menoncello and [Juan Ignacio] Brex, are one of the best combinations at the moment. If you give Italy quick ball, their backs will punish you.
“Marco will help us slow that down and make sure we get clean ball ourselves.”
RASSIE: Marco move could backfire on Boks
Kolisi is one of only four players retained from the starting XV that beat France in Paris last week, and he welcomed the energy brought by those stepping in.
“There are a lot of guys who haven’t had many chances, and they’re getting an opportunity this weekend,” he said. “We all want to play against Ireland [next Saturday], and this is a chance to show what we’re capable of as a group.
“The boys are keen. Having Handre [Pollard] back, controlling and leading the backs, is big for us. You can feel how he takes ownership.”
MORE: Boks summon extra muscle for Ireland
Kolisi also threw his support behind Sharks teammate Ethan Hooker, who starts in his preferred position of inside centre for the first time in green and gold.
“Of course I back him — I back him everywhere,” he said. “He loves rugby. He’s a big man, and he’s not scared of the physical side. He’s up against two tough centres, but I back him all day long.”
ALSO: Rassie unleashes next-gen Bok midfield
Photo: Gordon Arons/Gallo Images
