Boks biggest motivation remains making SA proud: Erasmus

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has emphasized that the team's biggest motivation continues to be making South Africans proud, both at home and among the supporters who travel long distances to watch the world champions. This sentiment was evident after the Boks secured victory in the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry title in Baltimore, defeating the All Blacks 43-28 to complete a 3-1 series win.

The triumph also ensured South Africa retained its top position in the world rankings. Erasmus highlighted the significance of the crowd, noting that the team appreciated the support of South Africans who were present despite potential financial constraints. The stadium was packed with 68,173 fans, most of whom wore the team's green and gold colors.

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi emphasized that the presence of these fans added to the occasion's meaning. The Springboks scored six tries, with players like Damian de Allende, Morne van den Berg, Malcolm Marx, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Kurt-Lee Arendse, and Cameron Hanekom contributing to the victory. New Zealand managed to score four tries through Codie Taylor, Will Jordan, Ethan Blackadder, and Beauden Barrett, but it was Cameron Hanekom's late try that ultimately decided the match.

This win marked Erasmus' 100th Test involving the Springboks since he became head coach in 2018, following a series of back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs and another major series win over the All Blacks. Erasmus expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to coach in America, noting the large number of South African supporters in Baltimore and reflecting on the team's recent turnaround, which included a win against a strong New Zealand team.