South Africa Bolsters its Front Line to Face Ireland
The South African rugby team has reinforced its forward pack ahead of the crucial match against Ireland in Dublin this weekend. The coach has called up hooker Bongi Mbonambi and prop Ntuthuko Mchunu to strengthen the team. The “Boks” were reduced to 14 players for the second consecutive time last Saturday. Franco Mostert received a red card against Italy for not using his arms in a tackle and, allegedly, making contact with the opponent’s head. Faced with this situation, the coaching staff was forced to make early changes to balance the scrum. Furthermore, the absence of Lood de Jager, also due to a red card against France, necessitated additional adjustments.Erasmus added that both players have proven their worth in the international arena, so they are excited to have them in the group. In addition, several players will not be eligible for the last test against Wales, as the match falls outside the international window. South Africa has won the three tests it has played on this tour of the United Kingdom and Europe so far and is eager to face Ireland, which comes from a resounding victory against Australia. Damian Willemse, named Player of the Match against Italy, spoke about the challenge in Ireland:This is a longer tour than usual, and we have two big matches against Ireland and Wales, which motivated the decision to call up Bongi and Ntuthuko.
Rassie Erasmus, head coach
The match will start at 17:40 UK time, 19:40 South Africa time.This group of players has not yet won at the Aviva Stadium, and that is definitely a goal for us. We want to deliver a solid performance, but it’s going to be a huge match.
Damian Willemse
