Surprise strings to Boks’ bow?

Assistant coach Johann van Graan says the Springboks have a few strengths they want to use in Saturday's Test against the All Blacks in Christchurch.

Van Graan, speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday, said the focus for South Africa is reducing the error rate against a 'fantastic All Blacks team'.

'For the past few years, we've came up short against fit All Blacks team, who keep calm under pressure. We've got to focus on our mistakes to make sure we eliminate the errors this week,' he explained.

Despite wanting to improve on their performance against the Wallabies in Brisbane, Van Graan believes each Test has to be approached differently.

'Every game has its own character, 30 different players, a different field, a different ball, and different referee. We believe we've got a few strings that we want to force on to them. This is Test rugby, and you've got to take and apply pressure. The team who does that the best for 80 minutes, will win.'

Van Graan went on to say any Test between the Springboks and All Blacks is a momentous occasion, regardless of what transpired before the match.

'The two rugby rivals have huge respect for each other and it’s always a special occasion when the two sides meet. Whether you are on the coaching staff or playing, you want to test yourself against the best in the world and on Saturday this will be such an occasion.'

Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images

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Mariette Adams