Bok duo fit to face Japan
Rassie Erasmus has confirmed that backs Cheslin Kolbe and Herschel Jantjies are ‘99% fit’ and will feature in the quarter-final against Japan on Sunday. JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo reports.
Boks have ammunition to end Japan fairytale
Depriving Japan’s dangerous back three of possession will be a key priority for the Boks in this Sunday’s quarter-final, and places extra importance on the accuracy of their kicking and defensive game, writes CRAIG LEWIS.
Hansen: All Blacks happy to avoid Japan
New Zealand coach Steve Hansen has paid Japan the ultimate compliment by saying they were happy to avoid the Brave Blossoms in the quarter-finals of the World Cup.
Recap: Your weekend in rugby
A look back at some of the biggest stories in the world of rugby over the past weekend. Catch up with the news here.
Leitch: We’re prepared for Boks
Japan Captain Michael Leitch says his team is prepared for their challenging World Cup quarter-final against the Springboks in Tokyo.
Boks can’t afford to look beyond Japan
Japan will pose a unique threat to the more-fancied Springboks in the quarter-final on Sunday, writes JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo.
Polarising De Allende the Boks’ go-to man
Damian de Allende’s role in the Springboks’ match strategy is going to become even more important as the Rugby World Cup heads into the playoffs, writes JOHN GOLIATH.
Faf: Boks won’t change DNA
Springbok scrumhalf Faf de Klerk says that good defence, kicking and discipline will shape the World Cup quarter-final next week. JON CARDINELLI in Kobe reports.
Faf: Plenty of competition at 9
Faf de Klerk on Cobus Reinach’s hat-trick against Canada, the competition among the Bok scrumhalves and the long buildup to the quarter-finals.
In pictures: Boks train in the rain
The Springboks did not let the wet weather in Japan dampen their mood during their training session in Kobe on Saturday as they continued preparations for the playoffs.
