Boks set sights on Sua’ali’i as De Allende plots midfield lockdown

The Springboks will keep a keen eye on Wallaby centre Joseph Sua’ali’i on Saturday in an effort to limit the space he has to operate in.

After impressing in his first Test against the world champions, scoring a sensational intercept try, the 22-year-old will be looking to deliver another strong performance. However, veteran Bok centre Damian de Allende has highlighted the attacking threat Sua’ali’i poses, and the Boks will aim to shut him down before he can get his side on the front foot.

Sua’ali’i scored the game-changing try at Ellis Park and will be eager to stamp his authority at the DHL Stadium (5.10 m start) when the two sides meet in the second Rugby Championship clash.

“He is very agile and explosive and gets up in the air well,” De Allende said of the youngster.

“We handled him quite well last week. I’ve watched him in Rugby League, in Japan, and when he was at the (Sydney) Roosters. He was enjoyable to watch, and like he did on the weekend, he does well to keep the ball alive, especially in contact.

“This weekend, we must make sure we take his space away. But it’s about doing it together, not individually. He has long arms and can get the ball away quite easily. He almost reminds me of Israel Folau, bringing that different dynamic to the Aussies.”

De Allende, who recovered from a back injury, was thrust straight into the starting side as the Boks look to get their campaign back on track. He will partner captain Jesse Kriel in the midfield, and their leadership at the back will be crucial.

He’s had an extra week to prepare for the Australian onslaught — particularly their centres — and should be ready for whatever they throw at him.

“We watched them during the Lions series as well and did that review together as centres and loose forwards. There’s always a responsibility — not just for me, but for André (Esterhuizen), Jesse, or Canan (Moodie) if he shifts to centre.

“It’s a big responsibility to own that position, and we know that. But whoever plays on the day knows the others have given them enough support during the week to own it—to make sure they’re 100% ready for what’s coming on the weekend.”