Rugby-Forget Twickenham’s record win for Boks, it’s this weekend that counts

PRESLES COURCELLES, France (Reuters) – Flanker Kwagga Smith said that the record-breaking defeat that South Africa inflicted on New Zealand less than two months ago will have no impact on the Rugby World Cup final against the All Blacks on Saturday. The Springboks’ 35-7 victory at Twickenham was not only the heaviest defeat suffered by the All Blacks but it also came on the back of a strong forward display, with controversy surrounding the selection of seven forwards out of eight replacements and their subsequent domination over the Kiwis. However, Smith highlighted the numerical advantage that the Boks had after Kiwi lock Scott Barrett was red-carded in the first half. “They got a red card at Twickenham and went down to 14 men. This weekend is the one that counts. So, we’re really looking forward to it and we know it’s going to be an epic battle. Upfront with the forwards it’s going to be physical but we’re excited for that. It’s a great challenge,” he said at a press conference.

This is the second consecutive time that South Africa finds themselves in the build-up week before a World Cup final, after winning in Japan four years ago. Smith acknowledged that there is more pressure this week but they have tried to keep everything the same and focus on their training processes.

The 30-year-old Smith is expected to be named among the replacements once again, although it is unlikely that South Africa will choose a seven-one split between the forwards and backs on the substitutes’ bench when the team is announced on Thursday. “If you look at our bench, even back in 2019, it has had a massive impact for the Springboks,” he said.

The renowned ‘bomb squad’ is known for their ability to come off the bench and influence the outcome of games, as demonstrated in the semi-final against England last weekend where the Boks came from behind to secure a victory. Smith emphasized the responsibility that comes with being on the bench and the opportunity to rectify any shortcomings observed during the first half. “You’ve got to be ready and make sure that you use your opportunity when you get it,” Smith added.

(Editing by Christian Radnedge)