England defence coach Richard Wigglesworth says the team is embracing one of the toughest assignments in world rugby.
England take on the Springboks in their Nations Championship opener next Saturday at Ellis Park, where altitude and a passionate, partisan crowd await.
Wigglesworth believes it presents an opportunity for England to prove their resilience.
“We have a massive challenge,” said Wigglesworth. “You can either see it as a massive hindrance or something really exciting that none of the other teams have to do – and we’re embracing it.
KEO: Poms set for Bok bruising at Ellis Park
“We’re lucky. We travel unbelievably well and get well looked after. They’re long flights, but we’re lying down for most of it. There are people doing far worse things.
“We’ll get on with it and rip into the exciting part of the challenge. How good will it be? It can’t be an excuse for us, it’s just part of the challenge.”
ALSO: Rassie talks up ‘awesome’ Pollock
England are expected to arrive in South Africa with a clean bill of health as they prepare for a Bok side that opened their season in emphatic fashion with an 80-31 victory over the Barbarians in Gqeberha.
Jamie George will lead the team, with regular captain Maro Itoje rested.
SQUAD: Pollock to face Boks, Itoje rested
Photo: Warren Little/Getty Images
The post England embrace Ellis Park challenge appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
England defence coach Richard Wigglesworth says the team is embracing one of the toughest assignments in world rugby.
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