New Zealand coach Ian Foster is eagerly anticipating a clash with the in-form Springboks after the All Blacks’ resounding 41-12 victory over Argentina in The Rugby Championship. Foster believes the match against South Africa next week will be a significant challenge, as the Springboks were equally dominant in their 43-12 win over Australia.
The encounter at Auckland’s Mount Smart Stadium is expected to decide the winners of the Rugby Championship, which has been condensed to just three rounds of matches ahead of the Rugby World Cup. The Springboks strategically fielded a weakened team against the Wallabies, opting instead to fly a dozen players to New Zealand early in preparation for facing the All Blacks.
Foster is anticipating a blockbuster encounter against South Africa, stating, It’s always big, we love playing South Africa. They have taken 10, 11 or 12 players and put them over in Auckland early, so they clearly have a plan, but our purpose in these first two weeks is to get this group together. There is no better foe to play next week.
While the All Blacks made a scintillating start against Argentina, scoring three tries in the opening 12 minutes, Foster recognizes that they cannot expect to replicate the same level of performance against the Springboks. New Zealand captain Sam Cane praised his team’s discipline and ruthlessness in attack, which enabled them to race to a 31-0 lead at halftime. However, Foster believes the second half was a wake-up call, noting that the team became over-ambitious and allowed Argentina some opportunities.
The New Zealand coach emphasized the importance of remaining clinical and not forcing plays in the future. He acknowledged that the second half against Argentina was a taste of what the All Blacks can expect in upcoming matches. Despite the dominant victory, Foster sees room for improvement and recognizes the need for his team to maintain their focus and composure.
The match between New Zealand and South Africa will undoubtedly be intense, as both teams have been in exceptional form. With the Rugby Championship title on the line, the encounter promises to be a thrilling spectacle. The All Blacks will be looking to build on their impressive performance against Argentina and put on another display of precision and skill against their formidable rivals.
As the Rugby World Cup draws nearer, every opportunity to face top-quality opponents like the Springboks is essential for the All Blacks to fine-tune their game. With their eyes firmly set on the ultimate prize, New Zealand will be determined to continue their winning momentum and establish themselves as the team to beat in the upcoming tournament. The clash between the All Blacks and the Springboks will undoubtedly be an unmissable showdown for rugby fans around the world.
