Springboks vs. Ireland: An Unofficial Battle for the Best Team in the World
On July 6th, in the rarefied atmosphere of Loftus Versfeld, the back-to-back world champion Springboks will face off against the Six Nations champions, Ireland, in the first match of a highly anticipated two-Test series. This clash will unofficially determine the best team in the world. A week later, the teams will lock horns again in Durban.
Damian de Allende, the experienced Springbok, views this as more than just a battle – it’s “almost like a war” between the two formidable squads. Ireland have won the last three encounters, most recently in the pool stages of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, and they last won in South Africa eight years ago.
De Allende acknowledges the recent tough losses to Ireland, including a narrow 16-19 defeat in Dublin in 2022. He believes the Springboks are determined to regain the respect they feel they’ve lost, not just Ireland’s respect, but their own.
“It’s almost like a war between the two formidable squads.”
- Damian de Allende, Springbok center
The Springbok center is full of praise for Ireland’s incredible coaching and attacking prowess, particularly their ability to excel at the breakdown. He recognizes the Emerald Isle’s biggest threat, but is relishing the opportunity to face them in front of the Springbok faithful at Loftus Versfeld.
This highly anticipated series will be a true test of the world’s best, as the Springboks aim to reclaim their spot at the top of the World Rugby Men’s Rankings. Fans can look forward to an “incredible battle” as these two rugby powerhouses go head-to-head.
The full episode of “Walk the Talk” featuring Damian de Allende will be available for free on RugbyPass TV on Thursday, June 6th at 6pm BST.
đź”— Source
