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Dayimani’s Diamond shines bright in Springbok shop window

Adnaan MohamedNews, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Dayimani’s Diamond shines bright in Springbok shop window
By Adnaan Mohamed

Hacjivah Dayimani is making a compelling case for greater recognition after back-to-back Man of the Match performances for the Stormers.

The loose forward scored twice in the 39-22 URC derby victory over the Sharks, showcasing his growing physicality, leadership and versatility.

With 43,000 supporters roaring beneath the shadow of Table Mountain, the 28-year-old diamond in the Stormers’ pack glittered brighter than the opposition’s star-studded Springboks as the hosts revived their famous Men in Black swagger.

The Sharks arrived unbeaten and loaded with heavyweight international firepower. They left nursing a bruising defeat, their coastal rivals having turned the scrum into a Cape Town battering ram.

While the return of several Springboks dominated the pre-match chatter, it was the Stormers’ collective muscle that stole the show. Wilco Louw, André-Hugo Venter and Ntuthuko Mchunu gave Thomas du Toit, Eduan Swart and Ox Nche a torrid afternoon in the front row.

Behind that demolition crew, Dayimani, Siya Kolisi and Paul de Villiers hunted at the breakdown like hungry predators.

Dayimani supplied the glitter.

He powered over from a maul in the 36th minute before crossing again after the interval, helping the Stormers build a commanding advantage and ultimately secure a bonus-point victory. Seabelo Senatla, Venter, Leolin Zas and JJ Kotzé also crossed the whitewash as the hosts avenged last season’s back-to-back derby defeats.

EXCLUSIVE VIDEO | Hacjivah Dayimani says it would be nice being part of the Bomb Squad

For Stormers director of rugby John Dobson, Dayimani’s growing influence has become impossible to overlook.

“We have a players’ Man of the Match, which always differs from what SuperSport comes up with. In the first two games, Hacjivah was a convincing winner,” Dobson said.

The coach believes the forward has added precious steel to his trademark sparkle.

“What’s changed about Hacjivah is his stopping power; I don’t know whether it’s because he’s decided what the gym is or because he’s got more determined.”

Dobson also praised Dayimani’s leadership, revealing that he has taken charge during training sessions involving the Currie Cup players.

That is music to the ears of Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, who values players capable of covering multiple positions.

Dayimani has started three consecutive matches at No 8, can operate across the back row and has even played on the wing, including against the All Blacks. His experience with French club Racing 92 also adds versatility to his rugby résumé.

“He’s metamorphosised,” Dobson said.

“At 28 years old and when you talk about hybrids, a guy who can run 10.80 and has stopping power has got to be in anybody’s [selection] frame eventually.”

There is, however, a catch in this tale of glittering ambition.

Dobson insists Dayimani must maintain his current standards over an entire season, acknowledging that previous flashes of brilliance have not always developed into sustained excellence.

“He’s had flashes of brilliance. He needs to build a proper innings. He’s just at the start of it. If he carries on like this, I’ve got no doubt about it.”

Those words should ring in Dayimani’s ears louder than Saturday’s thunderous applause.

The Stormers star has the speed, the flair and, increasingly, the muscle to make a compelling case. His challenge is to turn dazzling cameos into a season-long exhibition of consistency.

The Springbok jersey remains the prize, and competition for places is fierce. Yet another performance of this calibre will make it harder for the selectors to ignore the diamond shining in black.

Dayimani has struck gold in the opening rounds. Now he must keep mining his rich vein of form.

The sparkle is undeniable. The real test is whether this diamond can shine long enough to earn its green-and-gold setting.

STORMERS – Tries: Seabelo Senatla, Hacjivah Dayimani (2), André-Hugo Venter, Leolin Zas, JJ Kotzé. Conversions: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (3). Penalty: Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
SHARKS – Tries: Manu Tshituka, Matt Romao, Phepsi Buthelezi. Conversions: Gianni Lombard (2). Penalty: Lombard.

38 Springboks, Two URC Derbies, One Massive Saturday

Adnaan MohamedNews, Preview, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on 38 Springboks, Two URC Derbies, One Massive Saturday
By Adnaan Mohamed

South African rugby is rolling out the heavy artillery on Saturday, with 38 Springboks spread across two United Rugby Championship derbies promising a feast of collisions, bruising set pieces and simmering provincial pride.

The Stormers host the Sharks at DHL Stadium Cape Town, while the Bulls welcome the Lions to Loftus Versfeld for the latest chapter in the Jukskei rivalry. With 24 Springboks involved in the coastal showdown and another 14 at Loftus, the domestic stage will resemble a Test-match shop window with provincial colours.

The scene is set for the strongest exhibition of South Africa’s locally based Test quality this season.

The Cape derby carries extra theatre. The Stormers revive their famous Men in Black jersey, welcome 50 former players and their families, and celebrate Siya Kolisi’s return to familiar territory.

Sentiment will fill the stands, but the scoreboard will demand hard currency.

Kolisi’s presence adds leadership and emotional weight to a Stormers side featuring 11 Springboks in its match-day squad. Wilco Louw returns to the Cape franchise for the first time since 2020, setting up a heavyweight scrum engagement with Sharks prop Ox Nché.

Their duel deserves a prize-fight billing. One dominant shove, one mistimed bind or one costly penalty could swing territory, momentum and the match. In the front row, reputations are built one brutal reset at a time.

The Sharks arrive with a dangerous memory: their 30-19 victory in Cape Town on 24 January and two wins over the Stormers last season. JP Pietersen’s side knows the coastal road can be travelled successfully, making the derby a stern examination of John Dobson’s returning Springbok contingent.

Dobson has selected his strongest available team, while the Sharks bring their own international firepower, including Nché and Eben Etzebeth. The aerial contest and forward exchanges could turn DHL Stadium into a pressure cooker where every loose ball carries the threat of an explosive counterattack.

The Jukskei derby brings its own combustible ingredients. The Bulls and Lions have contrasting provincial identities and plenty of incentive to seize bragging rights in Pretoria. Last season, the Lions won at Loftus, while the Bulls triumphed at Ellis Park, proof that familiar surroundings offer no guaranteed shelter.

Beyond the established Springboks, both derbies give members of South Africa’s successful Under-20 teams a valuable measuring stick against players who have conquered the international arena. For Rassie Erasmus and his coaching staff, the evidence will be found in the details: decision-making under pressure, physical resilience, tactical discipline and the ability to deliver when the contest tightens.

The next generation will have to earn every centimetre. Reputation might open the door, but performance determines who owns the jersey.

Saturday’s double bill is a celebration of local rugby’s depth and a reminder that provincial loyalty remains a powerful force. The Stormers want their black strip to become a symbol of renewed authority; the Sharks will arrive eager to spoil the homecoming. At Loftus, the Bulls and Lions will fight for control of a rivalry that rarely travels quietly.

Thirty-eight Springboks provide the star power. Two derbies supply the combustible atmosphere. The rest is up to the players, the pressure and the occasional referee’s whistle that will send an entire stadium into a philosophical debate.

South African rugby has cleared the stage. Now the derbies must deliver the fireworks.

JUKSKEI DERBY

Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria – Kick-off: 13.30

Teams: 

Bulls: 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Canan Moodie, 13 Stedman Gans, 12 Harold Vorster, 11 Sebastian de Klerk, 10 Curwin Bosch, 9 Paul de Wet, 8 Cameron Hanekom, 7 Hanro Liebenberg (captain), 6 Jeandre Rudolph, 5 JF van Heerden, 4 Ruan Vermaak, 3 Francois Klopper, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Gerhard Steenekamp
Replacements: 16 Marco van Staden, 17 Alu Tshakweni, 18 Khutha Mchunu, 19 Cobus Wiese, 20 Elrigh Louw, 21 Keagan Johannes, 22 Handre Pollard, 23 Cheswill Jooste

Lions: 15 Quan Horn, 14 Kelly Mpeku, 13 Ethan Adams, 12 Henco van Wyk, 11 Richard Kriel, 10 Chris Smith, 9 Morne van den Berg, 8 Francke Horne (captain), 7 Siba Qoma, 6 JC Pretorius, 5 Hyron Andrews, 4 Dylan Sjoblom, 3 Sebastian Lombard, 2 PJ Botha, 1 Boan Venter
Replacements: 16 Morne Brandon, 17 SJ Kotze, 18 RF Schoeman, 19 JP du Preez, 20 Batho Hlekani, 21 Siba Mahashe, 22 Nico Steyn, 23 Boeta Chamberlain.

Referee: Hanru van Rooyen (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Christopher Allison (South Africa), Jonathan Lottering (South Africa)
TMO: Aimee Barrett-Theron (South Africa)

COASTAL DERBY

DHL Stadium, Cape Town – Kick-off: 16.00

Teams: 

Stormers: 15 Damian Willemse, 14 Seabelo Senatla, 13 Ruhan Nel (captain), 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Hacjivah Dayimani, 7 Siya Kolisi, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 JD Schickerling, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.
Replacements: 16 Deon Fourie, 17 Vernon Matongo, 18 Neethling Fouché, 19 Riley Norton, 20 Connor Evans, 21 Evan Roos, 22 Haashim Pead, 23 Wandisile Simelane.

Sharks: 15 Zekhethelo Siyaya, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Jurenzo Julius, 12 Andre Esterhuizen (captain), 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Vusi Moyo, 9 Jaden Hendrikse, 8 Phepsi Buthelezi,7 Manu Tshituka, 6 Matt Romao, 5 Darrien Landsberg, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Thomas du Toit, 2 Eduan Swart,1 Ox Nche
Replacements: 16 Esethu Mnebelele, 17 Cameron Dawson, 18 Vincent Koch, 19 Jason Jenkins, 20 Stephan Lewies, 21 Nick Hatton, 22 Ivan van Zyl, 23 Gianni Lombard

Referee: Morné Ferreira (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Griffin Colby (South Africa), Stephan Geldenhuys (South Africa)
TMO: Quinton Immelman (South Africa)

Haashim Pead: Stormers boss sees Antoine Dupont potential

Adnaan MohamedNews, RugbyLeave a Comment on Haashim Pead: Stormers boss sees Antoine Dupont potential
By Adnaan Mohamed

CAPE TOWN – Haashim Pead has barely pulled on a DHL Stormers jersey and already John Dobson has placed an intriguing name alongside his: Antoine Dupont.

The 21-year-old Bo-Kaap scrumhalf is set to make his Stormers debut from the replacements bench against the Hollywoodbets Sharks at DHL Stadium on Saturday, with Dobson comparing his potential with the French superstar who previously won the Junior World Championship Player of the Tournament award.

It is a remarkable reference point for a youngster whose own global breakthrough came at the 2025 World Rugby Under-20 Championship, where Pead was named Player of the Tournament after producing electric running, rapid service and instinctive attacking rugby.

“We went to a lot of trouble to get him,” Dobson said.

“He’s world-class … I don’t want to use that term glibly, but he’s a high-quality player.

“With all respect to Stef [Ungerer] and André [Warner], Haashim is the future. The quicker we get him on the field and develop him, the better.”

That is a sizeable endorsement before Pead has even played his first senior match for the Stormers.

The Lions moved quickly to sign him after his Junior World Championship heroics, although opportunities in Johannesburg were limited. His four-year Stormers deal has now brought him back to Cape Town, the city he calls home and the team he dreamed of representing as a child.

The geography adds another layer to the story.

Pead grew up on the cobbled streets of Dorp Street in the Bo-Kaap, less than 2km from DHL Stadium. On Saturday, he could walk onto the pitch in the Stormers jersey he once imagined wearing as a youngster.

He will deputise for two-time Rugby World Cup winner Cobus Reinach, giving the teenage sensation a front-row view of the demands of elite professional rugby.

Pead’s challenge is now to turn potential into production.

The scrumhalf has the speed to exploit broken-field opportunities and the passing game to accelerate the Stormers’ attack. The Sharks derby will offer a very different examination from the junior international stage.

The Stormers have surrounded him with serious experience, naming 11 Springboks in their match-day squad. Seven returning internationals are set to make their first Stormers appearances of the season.

Damian Willemse starts at fullback, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu partners Reinach at halfback and Siya Kolisi moves to blindside flank. Wilco Louw is also set for his first Stormers appearance since 2020.

Then there is the bench.

Fourie, who has 141 Stormers caps, provides veteran guidance alongside Evan Roos, Riley Norton, Connor Evans, Neethling Fouché, Vernon Matongo and Wandisile Simelane.

The Stormers will also wear their new black kit, reviving the iconic 1999 Men in Black campaign.

Dobson expects the occasion to resonate with supporters.

“This weekend we also play our first match in the new Men in Black kit, which is a great nod to our past and something which resonates deeply with our fans.”

For Pead, the symbolism is even stronger.

The world has already seen his potential.

Now Cape Town gets its first look.

And if Dobson’s Dupont comparison proves to be more than a headline, the Bo-Kaap boy could be at the beginning of something extraordinary.

DHL Stormers:
15 Damian Willemse, 14 Seabelo Senatla, 13 Ruhan Nel (captain), 12 Jonathan Roche, 11 Leolin Zas, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Hacjivah Dayimani, 7 Siya Kolisi, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 JD Schickerling, 4 Adré Smith, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 André-Hugo Venter, 1 Ntuthuko Mchunu.

Replacements:
16 Deon Fourie, 17 Vernon Matongo, 18 Neethling Fouché, 19 Riley Norton, 20 Connor Evans, 21 Evan Roos, 22 Haashim Pead, 23 Wandisile Simelane.

Rassie unleashes Malcolm Marx flank Masterplan

Adnaan MohamedNews, Preview, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Rassie unleashes Malcolm Marx flank Masterplan
By Adnaan Mohamed

Rassie ready to unleash World Player of the Year in new role against Wallabies

Rassie Erasmus is cooking up another Springbok surprise, and this one could see the World Player of the Year, Malcolm Marx, packing down far from his usual hunting ground.

Erasmus continues to redefine squad management, introducing 13 changes for the Test against Australia while building leadership depth through Andre Esterhuizen’s appointment as captain.

Malcolm Marx has been named among the replacements for Sunday’s showdown with Australia in Perth, but Erasmus has revealed the wrecking-ball hooker could be unleashed at flank when he storms onto the field.

Yes, flank.

The revelation adds serious spice to an already radically reshuffled Bok pack as Erasmus attempts to keep his warriors fresh while building the depth he believes will be crucial at the next World Cup.

“Even later in the game, if Ox Nché comes on, Jan-Hendrik might move to hooker, and we’ve been trying Malcolm on the flank as well,” Erasmus said.

That means Marx could swap the No 2 jersey for the loose-forward trenches, where his ferocious carrying, physicality and breakdown work could give the Wallabies another headache.

And if that sounds like classic Rassie rugby roulette, it is.

The Boks have also thrown another curveball at No 8, with Marco van Staden packing down at the back of the scrum alongside Elrigh Louw and Paul de Villiers.

But Erasmus made it clear that Van Staden’s biggest assignment is not wearing the traditional No 8 hat.

“There’s not a specific role for the eighthman apart from scrumming,” the Bok boss said.

The real battlefield will be the breakdown.

“If you take Paul, Marco, Elrigh, Jasper [Wiese] if he comes on, André Esterhuizen and others, I think the breakdown battle is going to be massive.

“Marco will have a massive impact there. Like Fraser McReight and the guys in their team, there are certainly guys who can disrupt a defensive breakdown. They’re really good at that and hopefully Marco can help sort that out for us.”

With Australia boasting breakdown pests of their own, Van Staden has been handed the dirty-work job.

The Boks have also built a safety net should the pack start falling apart.

If Louw or De Villiers are forced off, Franco Mostert can move into the loose-forward mix, while captain André Esterhuizen can shift to either blindside or openside.

Then there is Jasper Wiese, waiting in the wings for his 50th Test cap.

Jasper Wiese will earn his 50th Springbok cap from the bench Photo: X.com

Erasmus admitted he would have preferred to start the powerful No 8, but wanted insurance on the bench if the new-look starting combination hits turbulence.

“We’d have loved to start Jasper, but we need some security on the bench,” he said.

“We’re sure the guys who are going to start are going to be a little bit energetic and haven’t played for a while. There might be some combination hiccups.”

Up front, Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Zachary Porthen will pack down either side of hooker Johan Grobbelaar.

The selections are part of Erasmus’ bigger body-management operation, with Grobbelaar getting his opportunity after Deon Fourie played three Tests in succession at 39.

“[Deon Fourie] playing three Test matches in a row at the age of 39, Grobbies deserves a chance now.”

Erasmus also stressed that Wessels and Grobbelaar have experience against Australia, adding another layer to the selection gamble.

“We’re trying to save the bodies, and manage the guys while winning but also building some squad depth.”

In Perth, therefore, the Boks are not merely taking a hammer to the Wallabies.

They are sharpening every blade in the toolbox.

And if Marx really does appear at flank, Australia could discover that Rassie’s bench has teeth in places nobody expected.

Sunday’s contest, kicking off at 11:45 SA time on SuperSport, is more than another Test. It is another examination of Erasmus’ greatest creation: a Springbok system where stars rest, leaders emerge and the conveyor belt never stops moving.

SPRINGBOKS – 15 Aphelele Fassi, 14 Edwill van der Merwe, 13 Canan Moodie, 12 André Esterhuizen (c), 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Handré Pollard, 9 Herschel Jantjies, 8 Marco van Staden, 7 Elrigh Louw, 6 Paul de Villiers, 5 Franco Mostert, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Zachary Porthen, 2 Johan Grobbelaar, 1 Jan-Hendrik Wessels.
Bench: 16 Malcolm Marx, 17 Ox Nché, 18 Wilco Louw, 19 Lood de Jager, 20 Jasper Wiese, 21 Morné van den Berg, 22 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 23 Quan Horn.

Dobson reveals Stormers’ Springbok strategy

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By Adnaan Mohamed

The DHL Stormers are taking a more measured approach to managing their Springboks this season, with coach John Dobson determined to avoid the disruption caused by wholesale player changes during the previous United Rugby Championship campaign.

The Stormers have named a squad containing a significant Springbok contingent, creating the familiar challenge of balancing provincial ambitions with international commitments during a World Cup year.

Stormers director of rugby John Dobson said the biggest availability concerns would come during periods surrounding international rugby, although he expects his leading players to be available when the URC reaches its decisive stages.

“I think we have our players always around the playoff times,” Dobson said.

“It’s this period that’s challenging around post-Rugby Championship, what is traditionally normally not this year, the Nations Cup, but normally by the end of the November 12th. That period is very tricky.”

The Stormers also expect complications during the current period, with their Springboks returning from the four-Test series against New Zealand and preparing for further international commitments.

Dobson acknowledged that the issue is not unique to Cape Town.

“As regards players being invested towards the sharp end, that applies across every team in every tournament, from English Premiership to Irish.”

The difference this season will be the Stormers’ attempt to manage those transitions more deliberately.

Rather than returning their internationals as a single group, the franchise intends to phase them back into the squad while maintaining an approximate 80% strength team. The objective is to preserve combinations and avoid the loss of structure experienced last season.

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will be one of the players carefully managed after accumulating substantial minutes during the Springboks’ recent series against the All Blacks. He will not start all four of the Stormers’ October fixtures.

The Stormers have also invested heavily in their performance structures through what they describe as Project 29.

Steph du Toit returns as the franchise’s fitness specialist, while a performance psychologist and Australian rules consultant Steve Boris have also been added. Leonora Osborne will serve as acting manager, while the academy continues under Jacques Hanekom, who brings experience from Leinster.

The Stormers believe the investment can help them close the gap on a URC field where Dobson estimates that 14 or 15 teams are capable of challenging for a top-eight place.

Leinster remains the benchmark.

The Stormers’ Currie Cup campaign, despite ending before the semi-finals, also provided valuable evidence of their depth, with Vernon Paulo, MK and Tom Barnard among those to emerge as players capable of contributing at URC level.

Several younger players, including Markus Muller, Josh Boulle and Jonathan Roche, are also being integrated into the midfield, while the highly rated “Robertson Express” (Lleyton Davids) is being developed without being rushed into URC rugby this season.

There is less positive news surrounding Ben Jason, who remains with the squad after missing the Australian tour because of delayed concussion symptoms.

“He’s battling with delayed concussion symptoms. So he hasn’t gone to Australia. So he’s here,” Dobson said.

Jason is training with the Stormers but has not yet been cleared to play.

“Hopefully, he gets cleared in time for Connacht, but he’s with us at training with us at the moment. But he’s not cleared yet.”

For the Stormers, the challenge is therefore bigger than assembling a talented squad.

They need to keep it together.

With Springbok commitments, international workloads, injuries and a fiercely competitive URC, Dobson’s latest plan places cohesion at the centre of the Stormers’ pursuit of a first URC title.

Springboks vs All Blacks: Baltimore Rugby Brawl Awaits

Adnaan MohamedAll Blacks, News, Preview, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Springboks vs All Blacks: Baltimore Rugby Brawl Awaits
By Adnaan Mohamed

The All Blacks are desperate. The Springboks are hunting. Baltimore is the battleground.

There will be nowhere to hide when the Springboks and All Blacks slug it out in Baltimore on Saturday.

This is rugby stripped down to its studs: four games in a row, two wounded heavyweights, one series trophy and enough national pride to power a stadium.

The Boks lead. The All Blacks want to drag them into the gutter and level the series.

Siya Kolisi has seen this movie before. He knows the haka comes with teeth.

“We definitely want to win the series,” said the Springbok captain.

“We don’t want to draw it, and that has been our mindset this week.”

Translation: the Boks have no appetite for polite handshakes and participation medals.

They want the trophy.

They want the win.

And, above everything, they want South Africans to puff out their chests.

“We’ve all seen in the last three games that if you are not at your best, they have what it takes to punish you. But so do we, and we want to make sure we keep making our people proud.”

The stakes are already sky-high. Then rugby decided to throw another log on the fire.

Saturday marks Rassie Erasmus’ 100th Test match in his two Springbok roles as head coach and Director of Rugby.

For Kolisi, this four-Test marathon has felt less like a series and more like a succession of World Cup finals.

“In my experience, it doesn’t get tougher than this. It’s like playing four Rugby World Cup finals in as many weeks given the quality of both teams.”

That is not hype. That is a warning label.

The All Blacks have changed personnel and brought Richie Mo’unga back at flyhalf. Assistant coach Mzwandile Stick expected the move and reckons New Zealand could unleash an even more adventurous attack.

“Richie is world class and we know him well,” said Stick.

“I think the All Blacks are going to be even more bold tomorrow when it comes to keeping the ball alive and using the wide channels, and we know how dangerous they are.”

So expect the ball to fly, bodies to fly and somebody’s game plan to eventually crash into the advertising hoardings.

The Bok answer?

Bring the thunder.

“The most important aspect for us is to enforce our game on them physically and go from there,” Stick said.

That phrase, enforce our game, should make the All Blacks nervous.

Because the Boks are not arriving in Maryland to admire the scenery.

They are arriving to impose themselves.

Kolisi, meanwhile, has no intention of allowing outside noise to hijack the Bok blueprint.

“Our system isn’t rigid. We can play set-piece rugby and a kicking game. We don’t have a system that says we have to play a certain way. It’s one that creates opportunities for us to play.”

And Baltimore is already buzzing.

Stick says South Africans are everywhere, dressed in green and gold and travelling from across the United States to back their team.

“There are a lot of South Africans here and the vibe is great, so we are excited about the opportunity to promote rugby in the USA.”

Even Stick got a taste of American sporting culture, watching baseball and ticking an item off his bucket list.

His verdict on the pitchers?

“I thought (Kagiso) Rabada (Proteas bowler) was fast until I saw those pitchers.”

Now the Boks need to throw a few fastballs of their own.

Kick-off is 17h00 Baltimore time, 23h00 SA time, live on SuperSport.

Erasmus has 100 Tests to celebrate.

Kolisi has cap 107.

The All Blacks have desperation.

The Boks have a trophy to grab.

Baltimore has been warned.

Baltimore Brawl! Boks, All Blacks Ready for War

Adnaan MohamedAll Blacks, News, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Baltimore Brawl! Boks, All Blacks Ready for War
By Adnaan Mohamed

It’s payback time.

The Springboks and All Blacks are heading into a Baltimore blockbuster with Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry (RGR) trophy hanging in the balance and nowhere to hide.

Saturday’s showdown at M&T Bank Stadium is rugby’s heavyweight grudge match with a golden prize at stake.

The Boks lead the series 2-1 after victories in Cape Town and Soweto, having been stunned 33-16 by New Zealand at Ellis Park in the opener.

Now the All Blacks need another knockout blow to force a share of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry trophy.

For the Boks, anything short of victory will leave a bitter taste.

Rassie Erasmus knows exactly what is at stake.

“It’s two good teams who are facing each other again.

“It’s self-explanatory that if New Zealand win it’s a draw and if we’re victorious we’ll win the series.

“That’s what’s on the line, and that’s how we’re approaching this week.”

NO SAVEA, NO EXCUSES

New Zealand arrive wounded by the loss of powerhouse loose forward Ardie Savea.

Erasmus expects the All Blacks to reload rather than retreat.

“Ardie is a real influential player for them,” he said.

“You’ll probably never be able to replace a guy like Ardie Savea 100 percent, but players get older, they retire, and one day you have to replace them.”

The Boks know the danger. New Zealand have enough firepower to turn a match into a five-alarm fire within minutes.

And this time there is no Ellis Park fortress, no DHL Stadium cauldron and no Soweto roar.

There is Baltimore.

Erasmus is unfazed.

“A neutral ground is still 70×100 metres with a good crowd.”

The M&T Bank Stadium can hold 70,745 spectators, creating the tantalising prospect of a green-and-gold invasion against a black-shirted army.

Damian de Allende wants America to witness the rivalry at its rawest.

“They should come out and watch the rivalry between the Springboks and New Zealand,” he said.

“The best way to sell it is to have them come to the stadium and enjoy the experience of watching the top two teams in the world.”

MO’UNGA RETURNS

New Zealand coach Dave Rennie has pulled another rabbit from the hat.

Richie Mo’unga makes his first Test start since the 2023 World Cup final, adding a world-class conductor to an All Blacks attack desperate to turn opportunities into points.

New Zealand made 12 linebreaks to South Africa’s five in Soweto, yet still walked away empty-handed.

Rennie wants that changed.

“We just need to be better.”

“The set-piece stuff will be very important.”

His revamped loose trio of Peter Lakai, Ethan Blackadder and Tupou Vaa’i will have the unenviable task of confronting a Bok pack built like a brick wall.

Codie Taylor returns as captain, bringing experience after injuries robbed the All Blacks of Luke Jacobson and Savea.

“He gives us a lot of experience and leadership,” Rennie said.

The Boks have their own weapons.

Damian Willemse returns at fullback, offering aerial security and counterattacking electricity with Cheslin Kolbe unavailable.

Morne van den Berg’s explosive cameo in Soweto earned him the starting scrumhalf berth, while Jasper Wiese and Malcolm Marx remain central to the Boks’ collision-heavy blueprint.

Ethan Hooker will also be under the spotlight, with the aerial contest likely to become another battlefield.

Then there is the bench.

Cameron Hanekom. Manie Libbok. Deon Fourie.

South Africa have ammunition waiting for the final 20 minutes.

New Zealand have Wallace Sititi waiting in the shadows.

Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry has crossed the Atlantic.

Now Baltimore gets the bill.

And this time, there is no hiding place.

“One trophy. Two giants. Baltimore gets the final punch.”

Teams

South Africa: Damian Willemse; Kurt-Lee Arendse, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Ethan Hooker; Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Morne van den Berg; Jasper Wiese, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Siya Kolisi (captain); Ruan Nortje, Eben Etzebeth; Wilco Louw, Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche.

Replacements: Deon Fourie, Gerhard Steenekamp, Thomas du Toit, Lood de Jager, Andre Esterhuizen, Cameron Hanekom, Cobus Reinach, Manie Libbok.

New Zealand: Damian McKenzie; Will Jordan, Anton Lienert-Brown, Jordie Barrett, Josh Moorby; Richie Mo’unga, Cam Roigard; Peter Lakai, Ethan Blackadder, Tupou Vaa’i; Sam Darry, Patrick Tuipulotu; Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor (captain), Ethan de Groot.

Replacements: Asafo Aumua, Xavier Numia, Tyrel Lomax, Josh Lord, Wallace Sititi, Kyle Preston, Rieko Ioane, Beauden Barrett.

Match essentials

Saturday, September 12 | M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore
Kick-off: 23:00 SA Time
Referee: Karl Dickson
TMO: Andrew Jackson
Expected conditions: 22°C-27°C, humid and mostly cloudy, with thunderstorms possible.

Damian de Allende reveals secret behind Springboks’ defensive strength

Adnaan MohamedAll Blacks, Features, News, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Damian de Allende reveals secret behind Springboks’ defensive strength

Damian de Allende says preparation remains the foundation of the Springboks’ defensive system as they prepare to face the All Blacks for a fourth consecutive weekend.

The experienced centre has spent much of his career operating in the most congested part of the rugby field, but says there is no preference when it comes to his defensive assignments.

“For me personally, I just defend what’s in front of me. That’s the way we get coached,” De Allende said.

“Sometimes I’ll have to defend the forward, and most of the time I’ll have to defend against the backs, but I really don’t mind it.”

De Allende has faced some of the world’s leading midfielders during his career, including Ma’a Nonu, Conrad Smith and Sonny Bill Williams, as well as South Africans such as Franz Steyn and André Esterhuizen.

His current assessment of Jordie Barrett is particularly telling.

“At the moment, the one guy that really does stand out for me is Jordie Barrett,” he said.

“I think his skill set is incredible. He’s got the ability to do everything on the field at the moment.”

The pair have gone head-to-head during the first three Tests of the series, giving De Allende an opportunity to study one of New Zealand’s most versatile players.

“It’s been a real pleasure,” he said.

“I’ve always liked to learn a lot on the field, especially playing against my opposition. I feel like I’ve learnt a lot from Jordie Barrett on the field and it’s been incredible to play against him.”

De Allende believes the All Blacks’ attacking patterns require the Springboks to be disciplined and well prepared.

“For us on defence, it’s the preparation,” he said.

“And like Eben said earlier, it’s the work our coaches do in the background and they give to us. It’s from there the analysis.”

Jesse Kriel has also become an important figure in the defensive system.

“He’s one of our defence leaders, he’s the one that takes control over it a lot,” De Allende said.

“And the way he speaks about defence, the way he’s proud about it, he brings that across a lot and he gets all the players to buy into believing in what we’re doing is correct.”

There is still room for instinct once the match begins.

“Sometimes on the field it is instinct because there’s times on the field where we have to make split-second decisions,” he said.

“And sometimes you get it right and sometimes you get it wrong.”

But De Allende put a figure on the importance of preparation.

“I think 90% of the things go into preparation and what we plan for and what we expect to see from the All Blacks.”

The physical demands of the series have been significant, particularly in the midfield, where De Allende has battled New Zealand’s centres across three Tests.

He described the contest as one of the toughest of his career while acknowledging the quality of the opposition.

“Every Test match is tough. You play against world-class centres, no matter what country you play against.”

He also wished injured All Black Quinn Tupaea a speedy recovery.

De Allende believes experience has become another advantage for a Springbok squad containing several players with more than 100 Test caps.

“I think experience is quite important,” he said.

“There’s still a big sense of responsibility, not just individually but I think collectively, to make sure that we keep representing South Africa well and to the best of our ability.”

Age, he believes, has brought a greater appreciation of the work required to remain at Test level.

“I know we are getting a bit older but for me personally it feels like we’re working a lot harder than what we did when we were a bit younger.”

That work ethic, De Allende believes, explains why the experienced core remains capable of competing with the world’s best.

“I think that is why we’re still playing at such a high-class level, and I think that is still why we’re very competitive, and we can still compete with the best in the world.”

In Baltimore, the Springboks will need that preparation, experience and defensive discipline once again.

The All Blacks have already tested every seam in the green-and-gold wall. One final examination awaits.

Etzebeth: All Blacks series tougher than a World Cup

Adnaan MohamedAll Blacks, Features, News, Preview, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Etzebeth: All Blacks series tougher than a World Cup
By Adnaan Mohamed

Eben Etzebeth believes the Springboks’ unprecedented four-Test series against the All Blacks ranks among the toughest challenges international rugby can offer.

The veteran lock, who has experienced both the highs and lows of South Africa’s rivalry with New Zealand, says the significance of the Baltimore finale extends beyond another Test match.

“I think every Test match against the All Blacks is special,” Etzebeth said.

“Every Test match you put the green and gold jersey on is special and every time we play the All Blacks we know the rivalry and what it means to them as well as to us.”

The Springboks head into the fourth consecutive weekend of Test rugby against New Zealand knowing the result will determine the series.

For Etzebeth, the physical and mental demands of such a schedule make it a unique challenge.

“I think, challenge-wise, this is surely the toughest in rugby: to play New Zealand four times in a row and try to win the series,” he said.

“So, my answer to the question is, it’s not as special as a World Cup win, but it is still harder than a World Cup to win because you play against New Zealand, which, over the years, have been the number-one or number-two team in the world for a long time.”

“This is definitely one of the tougher challenges in rugby.”

Etzebeth’s own return has added another dimension to the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Series.

After a lengthy period disrupted by suspension, injury and concussion, the 33-year-old admitted that watching from the sidelines had been difficult.

“It was a bit frustrating, obviously not getting a lot of rugby under my belt,” he said.

“It was nice to be back. It was nice to play the first Test against Argentina again and get a full 80.”

He was particularly frustrated after being forced to withdraw from the England Test during the week.

“It was tough to watch the guys from the side obviously in the mix for that England game and then had to withdraw in the week. But yeah, great to be back.”

The enforced break also gave him an opportunity to work on his game.

“Every year you try to be a better version of yourself and you try to add to your skill set,” Etzebeth said.

“I think the time off gave me that opportunity as well. So yeah, I just trained hard and tried to get back into the mix.”

The Springboks’ response after losing the opening Test has been another key feature of their campaign.

Etzebeth credited both the coaching staff and players for ensuring the team responded under pressure.

“When you don’t have a good game, they’ll tell us,” he said.

“Also the players, I think every time we don’t start well, we pull together.”

He pointed to previous experiences, including the British & Irish Lions series and World Cups, as evidence of the group’s resilience.

“We’ve been in this situation before and yeah, it happened again and we said after the first Test match that we can’t lose another game. So the pressure was on.”

The Baltimore Test also provides rugby with an opportunity to expand its American audience ahead of the 2031 World Cup.

It will be Etzebeth’s first match in the United States.

“With the World Cup coming up in 2031, they’re definitely trying to grow it in America,” he said.

“I think this Test match is definitely a good start, us against the All Blacks here in Baltimore.”

For Etzebeth, there is a simple way to introduce new American supporters to the sport.

“The best way to sell it is to have them come to the stadium and enjoy the experience and see us play, the first and second-best team in the world.”

After three bruising Tests, the rivalry now gets its American stage.

For Etzebeth, that is precisely where rugby’s biggest challenges belong.

Rassie’s Baltimore Battle Squad!

Adnaan MohamedAll Blacks, News, Rugby, SpringboksLeave a Comment on Rassie’s Baltimore Battle Squad!
By Adnaan Mohamed

Rassie Erasmus has loaded the Springbok cannon, pointed it at Baltimore and declared war on the All Blacks’ hopes of stealing the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry crown.

With South Africa leading 2-1, the Bok boss has resisted wholesale tinkering and unleashed a battle-hardened XV for Saturday night’s winner-takes-the-trophy showdown at M&T Bank Stadium.

The message from the Bok camp is brutally simple: hold the line, finish the job, lift the cup.

Damian Willemse returns at fullback after recovering from his niggle, while Morne van den Berg is promoted from impact sub to starting scrumhalf. Cheslin Kolbe’s injury has forced the backline change, while Cobus Reinach brings his experience off the bench as the Boks prepare for another heavyweight slugfest with their oldest rivals.

Erasmus has backed the warriors who dragged South Africa into the series lead through two pulsating Tests, banking on continuity as the All Blacks sharpen their swords for one final assault, The Bok coach resisted the temptation to tear up a winning blueprint after two bruising victories, trusting the squad that has weathered the All Black storm and emerged with a 2-1 advantage.

“We feel that the team is well settled and all the players delivered in their respective roles in the last two matches, so we believe selecting the same matchday squad, and naming Damian back in his regular position, makes sense for the closing match of the series,” said Erasmus.

“These players also know exactly what to expect from a very determined All Blacks team, who will give everything to draw the series this weekend.”

Willemse returns after missing the Johannesburg Test through a niggle, bringing 54 caps and a box of attacking tricks to the No 15 jersey.

“Damian started the first two Tests and had it not been for a niggle last week, he would have also started that match, so it’s good to have him back. He is a quality player, and he knows the guys around him very well, so it will simply be a matter of him picking up where he left off before last week.”

Van den Berg gets his chance after an electric cameo last weekend.

“Morne, meanwhile, made a fantastic impact when he took the field last week, and he deserves a chance to start, so Cobus switches to the bench where he will add experience and skill in this vital match.”

The All Blacks are expected to arrive with their pride sharpened into a spear. Erasmus knows the decider could become an 80-minute street fight dressed in rugby jerseys.

“We have faced the All Blacks three weeks in a row, and just like us, they are a proud team who showed last week that they will never stop fighting until the final whistle, so we are under no illusions about the magnitude of the challenge ahead this weekend.

“That said, we are equally determined to finish the series strongly and give everything to lift the trophy, and the players are excited about the match.

“We have no doubt that it’s going to be another epic encounter that will require a full-blown 80-minute effort on attack and defence, so we will manage the players well this week to ensure that they are ready physically and mentally for Saturday.”

The starting XV carries a colossal 927 Test caps, with 600 among the forwards and 327 in the backline. The bench adds another 277.

The trophy is tantalisingly close, the Kiwi comeback machine is expected to arrive with its engine screaming, and Baltimore is about to become the latest battlefield in rugby’s most combustible rivalry.

One Bok victory crowns South Africa inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry champions. One All Black victory blows the series wide open and sends the decider into rugby folklore.

Springboks:
15 Damian Willemse, 14 Kurt-Lee Arendse, 13 Jesse Kriel, 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Ethan Hooker, 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, 9 Morne van den Berg, 8 Jasper Wiese, 7 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 6 Siya Kolisi (captain), 5 Ruan Nortje, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 3 Wilco Louw, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Ox Nche.

Replacements: Deon Fourie, Gerhard Steenekamp, Thomas du Toit, Lood de Jager, Andre Esterhuizen, Cameron Hanekom, Cobus Reinach, Manie Libbok.

Stats and facts:

Springbok record against New Zealand:

Played: 113, Won: 45, Lost: 64, Drawn: 4. Points for: 1 928; Points against: 2 352; Tries scored: 188; Tries conceded: 261. Win %: 39,8%.

Miscellaneous:

  • Eben Etzebeth will extend his record as the most capped Springbok player of all time to 146 caps when he takes the field.
  • The loose trio of Siya Kolisi, Pieter-Steph du Toit, and Jasper Wiese will extend the record they set last week to overtake Francois Louw, Willem Alberts, and Duane Vermeuelen (17) as the loose trio with the most Test starts to 19 matches.
  • The Springboks have only played three Test matches in the USA in history where they defeated the USA 38-7 in 1981 and 43-10 in 2001, while they suffered a narrow 22-20 defeat against Wales in Washington DC in 2018, which was Erasmus’ first Test in charge as head coach.
  • This match will mark the first Springbok Test in history to be played in Baltimore.
  • Jasper Wiese requires only one more Test match appearance after this encounter to join the group of players who have earned 50Test caps.
  • The Springboks have won seven of the last nine matches against the All Blacks dating back to August 2023.
  • The 2031 Rugby World Cup will be hosted in the USA.
  • The total Test caps in the Springbok starting line-up is 927.There are 327 caps in the backline, with 600 caps among the forwards. On the bench, there are a further 277 caps.
  • The average caps per player in the backline is 47, the forwards 75, while the players on the bench average 35.