Boks cannot afford to Faf around
THE SPRINGBOKS “sal sleg tweede kom” if they underestimate Australia in Sunday’s Rugby Championship clash in Queensland at 12.05pm.
That’s the warning from scrumhalf Faf de Klerk, who has tasted defeat with South Africa in Australia in both his visits Down Under to date.
The Springboks are currently on the ultimate high, following up their World Cup victory with a series win over the British and Irish Lions.
Add to this that they are unbeaten in the Rugby Championship after back-to-back wins over Argentina and it’s clear to see why the Boks are heavily favoured heading into Sunday’s clash.
On the opposite end of the pitch is a team that is hurt after two big defeats to rivals New Zealand in their first two rounds.
But the Springboks have not beaten Australia in their last five visits Down Under, losing four matches and drawing one.
Therefore, De Klerk warns: “We can’t, for one second, think we can just pitch up there and take the points, ons sal sleg tweede kom.
“The guys are prepared for what lies ahead. I know how difficult it is to play over here and it’s going to be a great test.”
The diminutive scrumhalf, just back from injury, adds: “We’re under no illusion of what a great side Australia is.
“Having watched those games [against New Zealand] and to see how close they actually were to winning those games …
“They’re going to come out – they are a proud bunch of guys, with everything they have.
“If we don’t bring our best, we will get a hiding.”
Teammate and midfielder Lukhanyo Am agrees, saying: “You can never underestimate your opponents. Australia are a side that are currently playing good rugby ...”
