The Springboks don’t want to say the Ireland clash is about revenge, but we’re not buying it
The Springboks have downplayed the revenge aspect ahead of their Test match against Ireland in Dublin, despite Ireland’s recent dominance and the Springboks’ long winless streak in the city. Seen here: South Africa's Damian Willemse with the ball. Picture: Paul Faith / AFP
Image: Paul Faith / AFP
At every opportunity this week, the Springboks have played down the revenge/grudge match aspect ahead of their Test match against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.
Ireland have won four of the last five Tests between the nations, and one of those wins for the Irish came during a group stage at the Rugby World Cup in 2023. That’s why, in Irish eyes, the Springboks are the current champions, but they were still unable to defeat Ireland.
Then you add in the fact that the Springboks have not beaten Ireland in Dublin since 2012. Of course, this is a rather different Springbok team to that of 13 years ago, with only Eben Etzebeth remaining from that side.
On Thursday, I asked injured prop Ox Nche if this will be a kind of grudge match as the Springboks don’t seem to get the credit they deserve from Ireland.
Nche’s Focus on Reality Over Opinions Ahead of Ireland Match
This is what Nche said: “Whatever people say, whatever people think this match will be about, that's people's opinions. But whatever the motive will be and whatever the reality will be in camp right now, that's the main thing and that's what will be the focus.”
Earlier in the week, former Springbok captain Jean de Villiers was more outspoken in his response to the same question: “Ireland, that's the other one where we need to tick that box and get a result,” De Villiers told SportsBoom.co.za.
“We haven't won in Ireland since 2012, I think it is. It's a hell of a long time, and even though we've beaten them, Ireland has very much been our bogey team, I would say, since 2004.”
“So that's going to be a big test for us to get a victory in Dublin and just show what we are capable of, because the Irish will, as we know, be well prepared, they analyse well, and they'll be up for that one.”
It’s interesting to note that even though De Villiers is long since retired, he’s reluctant to call it a revenge match.
Members of the squad and coach Rassie Erasmus have all avoided playing up this angle.
It’s probably a good strategy, as the Springboks are clearly focussed on letting their rugby do the talking.