Bob Skinstad says Rassie Erasmus’ Springboks cannot afford to relax in a tough year, kicking off with Saturday’s showdown against England.
Speaking in a wide-ranging interview on Planet Rugby, Skinstad argues being world champions comes with a cost for the Boks: a target that grows heavier with every trophy, starting with their Nations Championship opener at Ellis Park.
The former Bok skipper and No 8 reckons that South Africa’s dominance since 2019, including back-to-back World Cup titles and consecutive Rugby Championship wins, has made them the team everyone wants to beat.
MORE: Siya expects England to bring it
“That is a long time for any team in professional sport,” Skinstad said. “More so, when you’re holding the mantle of No 1 in the world. Everybody’s having a pop at you, everyone’s out to get you.”
He believes a demanding schedule ahead, including the four-Test Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series versus the All Blacks, will add pressure but ultimately sharpen the Boks.
Turning to Saturday, Skinstad highlighted England’s poor recent form and dismal history in South Africa, with just four wins from 16 attempts. Their record at altitude is worse still, having not beaten the Boks there since 2000.
PLUS: Stokke excited for Giant surprise
He questioned how much of a threat England pose without the injured Maro Itoje, while young upstart Henry Pollock starts on the bench.
Skinstad believes the Boks will remain confident defensively, but acknowledged the depth of young talent coming through England’s ranks could eventually click into gear.
While praising Steve Borthwick’s technical and analytical qualities, Skinstad also questioned whether the England boss has what it takes to lead his players through the toughest battles.
Photo: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images
The post Skinstad: Everyone wants a pop at Boks appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Bob Skinstad says Rassie Erasmus’ Springboks cannot afford to relax in a tough year, kicking off with Saturday’s showdown against England.
The post Skinstad: Everyone wants a pop at Boks appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
