Kolisi is ready for ‘a tough set piece battle’

SPRINGBOK skipper Siya Kolisi is anticipating a huge physical and tactical battle this afternoon against England at Twickenham.

Kolisi, appointed as Springbok captain in June, led the Springboks to a hard fought 2-1 series win over Eddie Jones’ team back then and today is set to face the Red Roses for the first time at Twickenham.

“Playing against England, in front of a packed Twickenham, the home of rugby, is a huge occasion for us and one that we are very much looking forward to,” Kolisi said before adding that the Boks’ series win in June does not make them favourites.

“The last time we met they beat us in Cape Town, so we know it’s going to be a huge contest between two sides that will be desperate to win.

“England is a disciplined side and they believe in their system and processes. It has worked well for them and I expect nothing less today.

“We saw in the series back home that they know how to control the game and we are expecting a very good tactical game from them,” Kolisi said.

“We can expect a tough set piece battle, they are playing at home in front of their Twickenham crowd who will be supporting them all the way.”

Kolisi mentioned that this match and the tour in general form part of the Springbok planning for next year’s Rugby World Cup in Japan.

“We only have four more games left after this tour, so this tour is a very important one for us as a squad. It will give us the opportunity to gain more experience playing together as a group, and more importantly, give us the chance to play every week in different environments and conditions.”

The Test kicks off at 5pm SA time and will be televised live on SuperSport 1.