Springboks Approach Italy Match with Utmost Concentration
On Monday, Springbok assistant coach Daan Human and versatile forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels highlighted the importance of respecting their upcoming opponents, Italy, in the first Castle Lager Incoming Series Test at Loftus Versfeld this Saturday, recognizing the Azzurri as a formidable team.
Despite ranking 10th in the world, the Springbok tandem anticipates a challenging match against the visitors, particularly given Italy’s emphasis on scrummaging and their overall rugby prowess.
“Unlike the Barbarians, who lack regular competitive experience, Italy is a consistently strong Test side, making Saturday’s clash vital,” Human remarked.
“A core belief for the Springboks is to never underestimate any opponent, and we appreciate Italy’s strong emphasis on forward play, promising a true Test match experience.”
Human further discussed Italy’s recent performances and their skill in set pieces: “In their first two Six Nations matches, they showed competitiveness, achieving a 93% scrum completion rate, which significantly underscores their capabilities.”
“Additionally, they earned four scrum penalties and secured a penalty try against Namibia, which had several players with World Cup experience, so we hold them in high regard as a team.”
“We remain uncertain about their starting pack this weekend, but we expect an intense battle.”
Wessels, who scored a try against the Barbarians, echoed similar sentiments about their opponents: “Having faced Zebre Parma and Benetton in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, we have thoroughly analyzed those players and their scrum-focused strategy.”
Shifting focus to the Springboks’ objectives, Wessels emphasized: “We aim to set a high benchmark for ourselves in this match. We respect each opponent and recognizing their scrum strength is vital; we strive to make an impact in set pieces.”
Demonstrating versatility in both prop and hooker roles, Wessels expressed his readiness to adapt to either position during the match.
“I have no preference,” Wessels stated. “I just want to contribute wherever selected, and while I feel for Gerhard (Steenekamp) due to his injury, playing both positions has certainly enhanced my understanding of prop and hooker.”
Reflecting on training with Human on a farm in the Free State to refine his scrummaging, Wessels acknowledged the challenges but noted progress in his skills.
“During a break in the Vodacom URC, while visiting my parents in Bloemfontein, Daan offered to assist me in developing that skill,” Wessels explained. “It’s the small details that elevate one’s game, and despite the difficulties, I genuinely enjoyed the experience.”
When asked about the primary focus areas during their training with Wessels and Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Human responded: “Our main goal was to ensure they are well-prepared for effective scrummaging while mastering the essential techniques.”
“I’ve always believed that scrummaging isn’t just about opposing a machine on the field, so we aim to adopt methods that enhance players’ scrummaging skills collectively.”
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus will announce his matchday squad for the upcoming match on Tuesday.
SA Rugby
