Boks prepared to fight fire with fire
KOLBE: WHATEVER AUSSIES CAN DO, WE CAN DO BETTER
Winger chomping at the bit ahead of his first Test start against Wallabies. Port Elizabeth
The Springboks’ back three do not have to sit back against a dangerous Australian combination this weekend, right wing Cheslin Kolbe believes. After playing two games from the bench, an excited Kolbe will earn his first Test start against the Wallabies tomorrow, replacing Jesse Kriel who was shifted to centre in the team named yesterday by coach Rassie Erasmus.
Driven by Kolbe, left wing Aphiwe Dyantyi and fullback Willie le Roux, the Boks had explosive speed and power to match the likes of Israel Folau on the right wing for Australia, according to Kolbe.
“It’s a good challenge for us and we would like to show what we can do,” Kolbe said.
“We can do just as well (as Australia) and whoever performs the best on the day will get the result.
“I remember joining the squad before the Brisbane Test, but the fact that I’m starting doesn’t change the plan. The preparation that we have put in during the week was quite good.”
Going to Toulouse in France had not changed his Bok dream, Kolbe said, and the vibe in the squad met all his expectations.
“The decision I made to go to France was not just a rugby decision. I felt I needed a change.
“But I always told myself I will never give up the dream of wearing the green and gold. I just kept believing and tried to play the best rugby I could, and then I got the opportunity.”
Compared to Super Rugby and the Top 14 competition, Kolbe admitted international level was another step up.
“You have to make the right decision at the right time, so it’s all about reading the play and making good decisions on the field that will benefit the team,” he said.
“I’m still learning and finding my feet in the team, but the guys around me make it so much easier for me. To know that I have somebody on my inside and outside who I can rely on makes it easy.” 13:55 on SS1 Rugby Championship South Africa v Australia 16:55 on SS1 English Premiership Saracens v Bath 15:55 on SS8 PRO14 Scarlets v Kings 19:25 on SS1 French Top 14 Clermont Auvergne v Toulon 20:40 on SS6
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