Springboks Approach Italy Match with Complete Concentration
On Monday, Springbok assistant coach Daan Human and versatile forward Jan-Hendrik Wessels emphasized the importance of respecting their upcoming opponents, Italy, in the first Castle Lager Incoming Series Test at Loftus Versfeld this Saturday, acknowledging the Azzurri as a formidable team.
Despite being ranked 10th in the world, the Springbok duo anticipates a challenging match against Italy, particularly due to the visitors’ strong focus on scrums and their overall rugby skills.
“Unlike the Barbarians, who lack regular match experience, Italy is a consistently competitive Test side, making Saturday’s game vital,” Human stated.
“A core principle for the Springboks is that we do not underestimate any team, and we recognize Italy’s emphasis on forward play, which ensures an authentic Test match experience.”
Human elaborated on Italy’s recent performances and their proficiency in set pieces: “In their first two Six Nations matches, they demonstrated competitiveness with a 93% scrum completion rate, highlighting their prowess in that area.”
“Furthermore, they secured four scrum penalties and a penalty try against Namibia, which included several players with World Cup experience, so we regard them highly as a team.”
“We are uncertain about their pack this weekend, but we anticipate a fiercely contested match.”
Wessels, who scored a try against the Barbarians, echoed similar thoughts regarding the opposing team: “Having faced Zebre Parma and Benetton in the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, we have thoroughly analyzed those players and their scrum-intensive approach.”
“Indeed, Zebre Parma had a remarkable season, defeating several leading teams in the competition, so we are gearing up for a serious challenge.”
Focusing on the Springboks’ objectives, Wessels mentioned: “We aim to hold ourselves to a high standard in this match. We respect every opponent we encounter, and recognizing their strength in scrummaging is crucial; we want to make a significant impact in set pieces.”
Demonstrating versatility in both prop and hooker positions, Wessels expressed his readiness to adapt to either role on the field.
“I have no preference,” Wessels stated. “I simply want to contribute wherever I am chosen, and while I feel for Gerhard (Steenekamp) due to his injury, playing both positions has certainly enhanced my experience as a prop and hooker.”
Reflecting on his training with Human on the farm in the Free State to improve his scrummaging skills, Wessels acknowledged the challenges but noted improvements in his performance.
“During a break in the Vodacom URC, while visiting my parents in Bloemfontein, Daan offered to assist me in developing that skill,” Wessels shared. “It’s the finer details that elevate one’s game, and despite the difficulty, I genuinely enjoyed the learning process.”
When asked about the primary focus areas during their training with Wessels and Asenathi Ntlabakanye on the farm, Human replied: “Our main goal was to ensure they are well-prepared for effective scrummaging while mastering the fundamental techniques.”
“I’ve always noted that scrummaging is not simply about countering an opponent on the field; we aim to adopt strategies that enhance players’ scrummaging skills overall.”
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus will announce his matchday squad for the upcoming fixture on Tuesday.
SA Rugby