‘I can’t wait to play New Zealand’: Why Springboks legends wanted the All Blacks

 

Rugby World Cup 2023 final: Springboks legends John Smit and Schalk Brits on why they wanted the All Blacks

Smit on why they wanted to play the All Blacks in the final

According to the captain of the team that won the 2007 World Cup, supporters from South Africa and New Zealand were speculating about this matchup.

“I believe that this is the World Cup final that both sets of supporters have been praying for, and as a result, we are facing our longtime rival, the All Blacks, in the final that we have always wanted.”

“Why is this clash being discussed more than any other clash?” due to the mutual respect between the two nations and the fact that the All Blacks are the only side that has ever defeated us.

“It’s the truth, and they challenge us to the maximum, bring out the best in us, and are the team we want to defeat the most. They share our passion for the game, surpassing common sense in the process.”

Brits on the two styles of play

According to the former test hooker, the All Blacks’ playing style is the main reason why the rugby world loves them so much.

“Returning to the rugby style, people adore the All Blacks because of the way they play the game.”

According to Brits, the Springboks have returned to playing in their most effective fashion because they are aware of their abilities.

“I believe there have been times in our history when we have attempted to play like the Australians or the New Zealanders, but we have returned to the South African style; we prefer to play like ourselves.”

“Our DNA is scrum, maul, and kick, and we play to our strength.”

In closing, he reiterates Smit’s sentiments, highlighting his excitement for the Springboks’ match against the All Blacks.

I am so excited to face New Zealand in a final.

Rugby World Cup 2023 final: Springboks legends John Smit and Schalk Brits  on why they wanted the All Blacks - NZ Herald

Brits and Smit on scrums

Shimange claims to have heard some talk about the last-minute scramble in the Springboks’ quarterfinal matchup with England, where South Africa was given the penalty that would ultimately win the match.

Brits adds his voice, adding he hopes the championship scrum is the last of it.

“I hope it doesn’t come down to one scrum that determines the outcome of the match,” I replied in response to a comment made by someone on New Zealand Sky.

If you don’t like scrums, go play league, advises Smit. “Go and watch rugby league.”

“Watch league if you want to complain about the scrums.”

On crowd boos directed at Ben O’Keeffe

The France vs. South Africa quarterfinal was officiated by New Zealand referee Ben O’Keeffe, and French fans have been very vocal about his performance in the days since.

The fans booed O’Keeffe loudly when he entered the field to officiate the semifinal match between South Africa and England.

Shimange calls the booing of referee O’Keeffe by the crowd “disgusting”. “That was the worst moment, I couldn’t believe it,” Smit agrees.

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