Springboks coach Jacques Nienaber has urged his side to be sharp in attack and defence when they start their Rugby World Cup defence against Scotland on Sunday.
The global showpiece is forever edging closer, with one more day until the tournament kicks-off with a mouthwatering encounter between host nation France and New Zealand on Friday.
Ahead of the encounter, Nienaber said he is expecting a close tussle against Scotland and that it was important for the team to find their rhythm quickly.
“Scotland are a quality team with a strong pack and skillful backs, and they play with a lot of intensity, so we need to be sharp on attack and defence on Sunday,” Nienaber told SA rugby media.
“They have proved in the last few seasons that they can beat any team, and with this being the opening game of the World Cup for both sides, they will be equally as charged up as us for the match.”
The Springboks have only played Scotland twice since Nienaber and director of SA rugby, Rassie Erasmus, took over the coaching reins in 2018.
The first win came in 2018, when the Boks produced a narrow 26-20 victory, which was followed by a comfortable 30-15 win in 2021.
The match will see scrumhalf Faf de Klerk gain his 50th Test cap for the Springboks and Nienaber has since commended De Klerk for reaching a significant career milestone.
“Earning 50 Test caps is a massive achievement and to mark that feat in the opening game of the Rugby World Cup makes it very special,” he said.
“Faf has been a key member of our team for a few years, so we are delighted for him. We are all focused on making sure it’s a memorable occasion for him and the rest of us.”
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