Blitzboks’ moment of truth

OLYMPICS

TOKYO – The Blitzboks will have to overcome more than just the opposition on the rugby field when they open their Olympic campaign today.

After a year of set backs, lack of competition and an uphill battle waiting in a Pool of death, the team have been hit hard by the lack of training together, the positive covid test for coach Neil Powell and the isolation of several players around him that has disrupted their preparations going into the tournament.

And their task won’t be made easier by the three teams in their pool, USA, Ireland and Kenya, all tricky opposition that can test and beat any team on the World Circuit.

While the Blitzboks will back their own systems, the real question will be just how much the setbacks have affected them going into the tournament and whether or not Powell will rejoin them in time for the opening game.

Closely- knit

The team is so closely-knit that a disruption like this can be crucial, especially when margins are so small.

Renfred Dazelh as taken over the training in Powell’s absence and believes the side will still be in top form when they take the field.

“I think it is fair to say that if everything that happened so far has not broken down our desire, commitment to the team and the brotherhood, nothing will,” said Siviwe Soyizwapi.

“I told the guys at training today that tomorrow will bring another challenge and although we don’t know what it will be, we will handle it like all the others.”

South Africa face the Irish in their first game up, and the Sevens surprise package are certainly a threat to the Blitzboks, especially after they beat France to qualify for the Olympics and boast a lot of pace and physicality in their team.

And in Sevens, just a fraction off your game can lead to a loss. And as Rio showed for the Blitzboks, any soft moments can be costly.