Van Straaten’s World Cup flashpoints

Former Springbok flyhalf BRAAM VAN STRAATEN picks his talking points from the first round of action of the World Cup.

Ireland loom large for Boks

The Springboks have four weeks to sharpen their aerial and kicking skills ahead of a likely quarter-final showdown with Ireland, writes JON CARDINELLI in Nagoya.

Koch: Trevor had an unbelievable season

Vincent Koch on his opportunity following Trevor Nyakane’s exit from the World Cup, while Beast Mtawarira is happy to have Thomas du Toit back in the squad.

Erasmus: Schalk brings calming effect

Rassie Erasmus discusses Schalk Brits’ appointment as captain, the selections for Saturday’s clash as well as Namibia’s standing as a Test nation.

Kriel nursing minor injury

Jesse Kriel was ruled out of selection for Saturday’s clash with Namibia after suffering a knock to his hamstring during the 23-13 defeat by the All Blacks.

‘Brits-Boks’ have need for speed

Rassie Erasmus believes that the back-row combination of Francois Louw, Kwagga Smith and Schalk Brits will allow the Springboks to push the tempo against Namibia, writes JON CARDINELLI in Nagoya.

Bok ruck tactics: ‘Genius stuff from Rassie’

Have a look at this very interesting clip from The 1014 Rugby that illustrates just how the Springboks enforced a new ruck technique and frustrated the All Blacks at the breakdown.

‘Boks have to regain momentum’

Coach Rassie Erasmus says it is imperative that the Springboks return to winning ways against neighbours Namibia on Saturday.

Brits to captain Boks at No 8

Schalk Brits will captain a Springbok team that features 13 changes for their second World Cup match against Namibia in Toyota City on Saturday.

‘Herschel a special player’

SA Rugby magazine looks at what happened on Tuesday in Nagoya as the Springboks build toward their next World Cup clash with Namibia.