Pressure off as Springboks put second All Blacks Test in its ‘own box’

The Springboks will enter the second Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Test without pressure, as they concentrate solely on securing a victory at Cape Town Stadium on Saturday. A win would prevent a series loss, following the All Blacks’ triumph in the first Test at Ellis Park, which would otherwise only leave them fighting for a drawn series over the final two games.

Springbok prop Thomas du Toit stated on Thursday that they have already moved past their disappointing loss last weekend and have categorized this weekend’s game as its own box, allowing them to focus on achieving their goals. He explained, "The important thing was for us to park that game [last Saturday] and take the learnings as quickly as we could.

I think we have done an incredible job over the last couple of years in putting every individual week and game in its own box." This mindset helps alleviate the pressure of multiple games, he added. Du Toit further praised the return of captain Siya Kolisi, who had missed the first Test due to injury. Kolisi's rehabilitation has been swift, and his return has bolstered the team's morale, providing confidence to both younger and experienced players alike.