‘I don’t care about Eddie’s mind games’
A selection of the best quotes from players and coaches at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan on Thursday.
‘Wales have had the Boks’ number’
Former World Cup-winning Bok coach Jake White says he can foresee inspirational Wales captain Alun Wyn Jones going on to lift the Webb Ellis Cup.
Rassie: Willie’s ‘calm head’ is needed
Rassie Erasmus says the calming influence of Willie le Roux is crucial for the Boks’ back three despite the criticism the fullback has received recently.
Bench split will boost Boks’ prospects
Rassie Erasmus believes that the 6-2 bench selection tactic will improve the Springboks’ chances of beating Wales and peaking in the subsequent World Cup final. JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo reports.
‘Brilliant’ Nienaber key to Bok success
Rassie Erasmus has praised former army buddy Jacques Nienaber for the role he’s played in reviving the Springbok brand over the past 18 months. JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo reports.
How Boks can turn the tables on Garces
The Springboks can’t go into their Rugby World Cup semi-final against Wales with one eye focused on referee Jerome Garces, but they have to adapt to his style of policing the breakdown and offsides line, writes JOHN GOLIATH.
Rassie laments Kolbe’s absence
Rassie Erasmus says it is disappointing to lose wing Cheslin Kolbe to injury for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final against Wales in Yokohama.
Rassie: Gatland an absolute legend
Rassie Erasmus on Wales coach Warren Gatland and how the 6-2 split on the bench will boost the Bok defence during Sunday’s semi-final.
Nkosi in, Kolbe out for Boks
Sbu Nkosi will replace the injured Cheslin Kolbe in the only change to the Springboks’ starting lineup for the semi-final against Wales on Sunday.
Kolbe injury piles pressure on back three
Cheslin Kolbe’s aerial skills will be missed as much as his attacking edge when the Springboks battle Wales in the World Cup semi-final, writes JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo.
