Bok captain Du Toit warns concentration is key to seeing off All Blacks threat
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JOHANNESBURG, Aug 21 : South Africa must keep their wits about them and ensure concentration levels are consistent to counter New Zealand’s attacking prowess when the foes meet in the first of their four-test series on Saturday, said home captain Pieter-Steph du Toit.
They are set for a potentially titanic tussle as the All Blacks tour South Africa for the first time in 30 years in what is billed as ‘Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry’ with the Springboks’ power game against New Zealand’s pace and running prowess.
“We know New Zealand are going to bring it with intensity,” Du Toit said on Friday at a press conference.
“We really believe the line outs and the scrum are going to be something where we’re going to have to perform well.
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“They’re going to try and test us, finding gaps if we switch off. We know they’re quite fast and have very skilful players. They’re definitely going to try and exploit this and come up with good plans as well.
“So I would say we have to be alert at all times and don’t get caught out.”
Du Toit, World Rugby Player of the Year in 2019 and 2024, continues as Bok captain after Siya Kolisi missed the Nations Championship wins over England, Scotland and Wales last month through injury and was left out of Saturday’s first test at Ellis Park.
The added responsibility will not weigh too heavily on his shoulders, Du Toit added.
“We’ve got a very good system and with all our coaches and players around me it makes it much easier.
“We’ve got so many senior players, people have played a lot for Springboks, a lot of test experience.
“Being able to captain the team is a huge honour but it doesn’t change anything for me. I’m still focused on my game and what I have to do Saturday is play well and the rest will take care of itself.”
A first four-test series in 30 years makes it a novelty for the players, Du Toit added, and one they were relishing.
“I would say it’s very different with New Zealand playing four back-to-back games in South Africa.
“It’s a massive honour and privilege to be able to play against them and face the Haka. Now the older you get, the biggest dream is to keep doing it.
“At the moment, I’m trying to do everything I can to keep that dream alive and to still be there and add value and contribute to the team. And hopefully I can do this on Saturday,” added the 34-year-old.
Source: Reuters
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