How the Force fiasco could help the Springboks in Perth

At first glance, it’s not immediately apparent why the Force’s axing from Super Rugby can help the Springboks in Saturday’s Rugby Championship meeting with the Wallabies in Perth.

But former Springboks skipper Jean de Villiers explains it rather neatly.

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“The Wallabies have a lot to prove, their coach and the Australian Rugby Union are both under a bit of pressure,” he said.

“With the Western Force being kicked out of Super Rugby, the locals might just back the Springboks more. Maybe the Wallabies won’t be as well-received in Perth, maybe they won’t have quite as much support. That will be a bonus for the Springboks.”

Indeed, the continuing legal saga has brought out the worst in Australian rugby.

However, the legendary Springboks midfielder warns his former teammates that they can’t take that little boost for granted, especially as the attacking ability of the Wallabies will make them dangerous opponents.

“The Wallabies are much better than people think they are and they will obviously be more confident after their last performance against New Zealand,” said De Villiers.

“It certainly won’t be easy, the Wallabies are a dangerous side with lots of x-factor players. Guys like Kurtley Beale, Israel Folau and Will Genia are quality, world-class performers, so the Springboks defence is going to have to function very well. In fact the Springboks can still improve in all areas.”

Instead, the Springboks should rely on their biggest weapon in 2017 to date: a brilliant team culture.

In fact, De Villiers believes the transformation in the national rugby team’s fortunes this year has been a result of the players playing for each other.

“There’s no doubt that the culture of the team has changed drastically. They’re not playing for the win or for a trophy, but for each other, a higher purpose if you like, and the wins are the end result of that. They had more time to prepare this year, which is another reason they’re better,” he said.

“South Africa are definitely on an upward curve, they have built up some momentum and they’re in a good space. To win with a bonus point in Salta was huge and it will have given them a lot of confidence. But every week is a new week in international rugby and they have to go back to basics and start up front again in Perth.”