By Sanjay Deva

Following five defeats in this year's Tri-Nations by the most experienced side ever, how is it that the Boks are on a learning curve?

After the latest debacle in Bloemfontein where the Boks were beaten 41-39 by the Wallabies, and had to hand back their Mandela plate title, it's surprising how the most experienced Bok side ever fielded, have not endured more criticism for being unable to close out the match when the Wallabies had to play most of the last 10 minutes with only 14 men.

After the match Springbok loosehead prop Gurthro Steenkamp said, “We can take everything [in] this whole Tri-Nations as a learning curve, put it behind us and move forward.”

I struggle to comprehend what learning curve this Bok side needs to be on.

Every single player in the starting line-up has either won the Rugby World Cup or the Super 14 competition. Add to that most of them have won Tri-Nations, Currie Cups, multiple Super 14s and a British and Irish Lions series.

It was the most experienced Bok side ever fielded. Why the need for a learning curve? Shouldn't they know what and how to win?

The Wallabies by comparison are a young and inexperienced side and have had massive injury problems to many key players. They certainly learned a lesson pretty quickly from Loftus.

I am not having a go at Steenkamp, who is probably just repeating what is being said by the entire side. What I am having a go at is a side that keeps giving us excuses, fails to learn, and is alienating their supporters further and further every game.

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Springbok captain John Smit was a disappointed man after his side's fifth Tri-Nations defeat of 2010, when they were beaten 39-41 by the Wallabies in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

The Wallabies won back the Nelson Mandela Challenge Shield when they beat the Springboks in a dramatic Vodacom Tri-Nations match in Bloemfontein on Saturday.

Like the previous week, the Wallabies raced to a healthy lead – 31-6 after 25 minutes. And, like at Loftus, the Boks fought back, but this time the Australians hung in and Kurtley Beale kicked a long-range penalty goal at the death to win the game for the visitors.

South Africa's tries were scored by Jaque Fourie, Gurthrö Steenkamp and Jean de Villiers. Morné Steyn had a superb night with the boot, slotting three conversions and five penalty goals.

For the Wallabies, Beale, James O'Connor, Stephen Moore, Rocky Elsom and Drew Mitchell crossed the try line. Matt Giteau (4) and O'Connor added conversions, while Giteau and Beale kicked one penalty goal each.

Lamenting poor defence and another bad start to the Test, Smit said hard work lies ahead in the next year before the 2011 Rugby World Cup kicks off in New Zealand.

“Our defence was not good, especially early in the game, and they cut us too easily,” said Smit.

“In this game the margins are small. The try right at end of the first half helped and I thought we started the second half well.

“Usually our defensive system works well, but it did not work tonight. We only have ourselves to blame.

“I don't feel good about our season. We've been disappointing in the Tri-Nations when one looks at the players and experience we have. We're below par and far off the pace. It will be no use giving a bunch of excuses – we're off our best and have work to do.”

Bok coach Peter de Villiers said: “If you look at how we started this one, I think we showed character to come back. Our structures are in place and they can take us to World Cup if executed properly.”

De Villiers said they should not have allowed the Wallabies to build momentum.

“If we execute our plans perfectly, it will be very difficult to score against us. We needed to show more character on defence, like we did in Soweto and last week at Loftus,” said De Villiers.

“I think the turning point was the line-out where we got penalised. The ball did not travel five metres and we were expecting them to be penalised for that, but instead we got penalised and they scored.

“While we can look for answers, the fact is that we can't afford to play catch-up two weeks in a row.”

By AAP

Wayne Smith says the clash against the Wallabies on Saturday in Sydney will be the All Blacks toughest Test to date in 2010.

It's hardly fear, but the All Blacks are approaching Saturday's Test with plenty of respect for a revitalised Wallabies outfit, even while considering some team changes.

Despite a winning run over their trans-Tasman rivals that now stretches to nine-straight Test victories, the New Zealanders say they expect the ANZ Stadium clash to be the toughest they've faced in 2010.

With the Bledisloe Cup and Bundaberg Red Tri-Nations trophy already in their safe keeping, the visitors appear set to give two of their most promising players starting roles.

Training line-ups suggest Victor Vito and Israel Dagg may come in at the expense of flanker Jerome Kaino and winger Joe Rokocoko, while youngster Aaron Cruden is to replace injured playmaker Dan Carter.

But All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith says the dynamic Wallabies attack which opened up healthy early leads in their last two Tests in South Africa has to be recognised and nullified by the Kiwis.

While the Wallabies were unable to stop the Springboks coming back in both Tests, even losing at Loftus Versfeld after holding a 14-0 lead, Smith also feels the spirit on display in their 41-39 victory at Bloemfontein last weekend shows the Wallabies are a better team than they were when the All Blacks last met them.

"They would have taken a lot out of that," Smith said.

"They seem to have a good spirit. In terms of their attack they offer a much tougher proposition for our defence than any other challenge we've had this year, even than against them previously.

"They're playing a lot better in attack now than they did the last couple of times we played them.

"That's going to be the challenge for us."

Smith concedes part of that increased attacking threat is undoubtedly linked to the return of boom five-eighth Quade Cooper from a two-match suspension which saw the Queensland Reds playmaker miss both Bledisloe encounters earlier this year.

"He certainly changes the picture," Smith said of Cooper.

"There's no doubt about that. He and (halfback Will) Genia have a great partnership going there but I think everyone in attack's played well for them.

"They've got a pattern that they seem to have become used to so they provide quite a few threats right across the track, it's not just Cooper.

"You can't win at altitude against a desperate Boks team without having grown yourself. I think that'll make a difference to them.

"Having said all that though, we've got a great spirit, we've got strong leadership and we've had a couple of weeks to refresh and recover."

The last time an All Blacks team lost to the Wallabies was in Sydney in 2008, but despite nearly three years without a loss to Australia, Smith said there was no chance of his team taking their opponents lightly this weekend.

"I can't remember too many soft encounters against any Wallaby team and that holds true today," he said.

"Whilst we've had a lot of wins against them, a lot of them have been down to the wire, we've been down at halftime a hell of a lot of times and had to fightback and there's never been a degree of comfort in the coaching box I can tell you that."

The countdown to the Springboks' defence of the Rugby World Cup began in earnest this week – precisely one year out from the tournament kick-off. The South African Rugby Union (SARU) unveiled its Unite 2011 campaign, appealing to all South Africans to get behind the team as the clock begins to tick away.

The 2011 tournament opens on September 9, 2011 when hosts New Zealand take on Tonga at Eden Park in Auckland.

Two days later the Springboks begin their campaign against Wales in Wellington. The tournament concludes six weeks later back at Eden Park for the final (October 23).

It will be the Springboks' fifth tilt at the title and, having won the title twice already, they will be chasing the added distinction of becoming the first nation to successfully defend the Webb Ellis Cup.

“It may seem a long way away after such disappointing results in the Tri-Nations, but the lesson of history is that the Springboks have every chance of retaining the Rugby World Cup,” said Mr Oregan Hoskins, president of SARU.

“Four years ago results were probably even more concerning, but a year later John Smit lifted the trophy and I'm sure South Africans will unite behind the team as they did four years ago.

“The soccer World Cup saw the country unite behind Bafana Bafana and we want them to keep the flag flying for the Springboks over the next 12 months and then all the way to the final.”

The Unite campaign will gather momentum nearer kick off but, for now, Springbok supporters can unite the behind the team by going to www.unite2011.co.za, registering their support and earning the chance to win some special prizes.

The first winner drawn from those registering will win a trip for two to Dublin to watch the Springboks' Test against Ireland at the new Aviva Stadium on November 6.

• The Springboks have eight remaining Tests (and a match against the Barbarians) between now and kick off in the 2011 Rugby World Cup.
• South Africa have been drawn in Pool D together with Wales, Fiji, Samoa and Namibia.
• It is the fourth time in five tournaments that South Africa has been pooled with Samoa.
• South Africa has never met Wales at a Rugby World Cup tournament.
• As well as winning the 1995 and 2007 tournaments, South Africa finished 3rd at the 1999 event.
• The Springboks have won 21 out of 24 RWC finals matches for a winning percentage of 87.5%.
• Should South Africa top Pool D then the Springboks will play the runner up in Pool C – most likely to be one of Italy, Australia or Ireland in the quarter final.
• Should the seedings go to expectation the Springboks will meet New Zealand in the semifinals.

By Sanjay Deva

Have the Springboks turned the corner in their 44-31 win over the Wallabies at Loftus Versfeld?

Just as the Boks win over the All Blacks in Rustenburg in 2006 was a turning point, this ugly yet important test victory over the Wallabies, may define the Boks 2011 Rugby World Cup campaign.

Relieved Boks

After the match, Springbok captain John Smit was a relieved man as he was asked how he felt.

“Certainly it's a good feeling. Last week my heart was broken, this week just feels so good to be able to let Victor enjoy it in front of his home crowd, it's almost a fairytale” said Smit.

“It's difficult when you get a start like that because you can look at it in two ways. You can see yourself as having a massive handicap and trying to chase it the whole time or you can see it as 60 to 70 minutes to go to get your game going and be patient.

“We know we made one or two mistakes that gifted them tries, but we also knew we have the whole game ahead of us. There was no inexperience or panic in the team and thankfully a few guys have seen this before and come back from it.”

The Boks Have Learned Their Lesson

Smit said the side was able to draw on past experiences, including the comeback test against the Lions last year, and no doubt from the disappointment of just seven days ago at Soweto.

“Thankfully we've been in situations where we've been able to learn from this. A year ago we were in a similar situation on this field against the British and Irish Lions.

“As long as you draw on all those experiences, and we've worked hard in our four weeks off. Last week was better and this week was even better. Now we've just got to make sure we keep on improving.”

His vice-captain Victor Matfield echoed his skipper's thoughts as he said: “Luckily we are experienced enough to know that when you start like that, you have to stick to the things you know and you don't go out of your game plan. We stuck to what we knew and things started to happen for us.”

“I think it also helped the way the Wallabies wanted to play, it gave us the freedom to play and we knew if we played then things would happen for us.”

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers admired the composure his side showed, and will be aware his side was far from perfect in grinding out a win.

“You will never play the perfect game. Last week we were a lot more intense, but this week we were more composed. In Soweto the guys were afraid to make mistakes and that showed in our play. Today that wasn't the case and I think we benefited from that” De Villiers said.

Australian Threat

With another game against Australia [this] week in Bloemfontein, De Villiers was well aware of the threat the Aussies posed.

“This defeat doesn't make Australia a bad team. We did well to put pressure on their key players, but they are dangerous when they get space and we'll have to be aware of that again next week. They've got some good dancers in the team, guys who can dance without hearing music. We'll have to be a lot tighter defensively if we want to shut them out again.”

Bok Focus

When asked if he intended to lead the Boks into the next World Cup, Smit was emphatic in his desire to keep leading the Boks.

“No you'll see me around. [It's] certainly gonna be a year that I want to play well and I'll be there. I'll be putting my hand up. It'll be up to the selectors and coaches to see if I'm good enough next year.

“When you're losing you're always gonna cop it so we'll just make sure we work hard.”

With Peter de Villiers set to lead us to rugby's holy grail, one can clearly see where the Bok focus lies.

“Victor and I are relieved that it is done and dusted and now it is time to start on the next chapter. But we do that one day at a time and we know how much we need to improve and how much work there is for us to be ready for next year. It's not all about this Tri-Nations, it is about being ready for next year's seven week process” said Smit.

Whilst I have no problem with that as I also believe the World Cup is the most important trophy, I am not sure enough experimentation has taken place, or enough opportunities have been given to those who deserve it,

De Villiers appears to know who his strongest line-up consists of, and that will certainly be formidable, but what if one of his key players sustains an injury just before the World Cup?

Rudolf Straueli found out how they can bite one in the bum when his key weapons Bob Skinstad, Andre Pretorius and Jean de Villiers were ruled out of the 2003 World Cup.

It's an important lesson for De Villiers to remember.

Now should be the perfect time to put in place contingency plans just in case.

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• A total of 750 caps among the starting XV makes this the most experienced Springbok side of all time. The previous record was the 700 caps shared by the starting XV for the Test against New Zealand in Wellington earlier in the tournament. 
• This will be the 71st Test match between the Springboks and Wallabies since their first encounter at Newlands in 1933. Of the past 70 Tests South Africa have won 41, lost 28 and drawn one for a winning percentage of 59%.
• South Africa's Tri-Nations record against Australia is: Played 33; Won 18; Lost 14; Drawn 1. South Africa scored 67 tries and conceded 73.
• Saturday's match will be the fourth Test in Bloemfontein between the Springboks and Wallabies. In 1933 Australia won 15-4, in 1969 South Africa won 19-8 and in 1996 South Africa won 25-19.

The Springbok Team
15 – Frans Steyn – 38 caps
14 – J-P Pietersen – 35 caps
13 – Jaque Fourie – 61 caps
12 – Jean de Villiers – 62 caps
11 – Bryan Habana – 65 caps
10 – Morné Steyn – 20 caps
9 – Francois Hougaard – 4 caps
8 – Pierre Spies – 36 caps
7 – Juan Smith – 64 caps
6 – Schalk Burger – 62 caps
5 – Victor Matfield – 100 caps
4 – Danie Rossouw – 53 caps
3 – Jannie du Plessis – 19 caps
2 – John Smit (Captain) – 101 caps
1 – Gurthrö Steenkamp – 30 caps

Replacements
16 – Chiliboy Ralepelle – 16 caps
17 – CJ van der Linde – 64 caps
18 – Flip van der Merwe – 5 caps
19 – Ryan Kankowski – 15 caps
20 – Ricky Januarie – 47 caps
21 – Juan de Jongh – 6 caps
22 – Gio Aplon – 8 caps

• John Smit will play in his 76th Test as captain. Should Smit score a try, he will equal the Springbok record for most tries in Tests as a hooker. The current record is jointly held by James Dalton and Bismarck du Plessis with five career tries. Smit will be playing in his 28th Vodacom Tri-Nations test as captain, the most capped captain in the tournament. 
• Victor Matfield will play in his 42nd Vodacom Tri-Nations test, the second most capped player in the tournament. George Gregan heads the list with 48 caps. Matfield is also the most capped Springbok against Australia with 21 Tests.
• Bryan Habana needs one try to become South Africa's most prolific try scorer in tests. Habana currently shares the record with Joost van der Westhuizen with 38 test tries. He needs two tries to equal Breyton Paulse's career record of seven tries against Australia. Habana is the most capped Springbok wing with 64.
• Jaque Fourie and Jean de Villiers will play in their 22nd test as a centre pairing since their first test together in 2005 against Australia at Ellis Park, extending their Springbok record as a centre pairing. 
• Frans Steyn needs one drop goal to become the sole Springbok record holder for most career drop goals against Australia. The current record is two, jointly held by Percy Montgomery, André Pretorius and Steyn.
• Morné Steyn is one of only eight players to have scored more than 100 career points in the Tri-Nations (148 in 11 appearances). Dan Carter tops the list with 426 points in 30 appearances. Steyn needs one drop goal to equal André Pretorius' tournament record of four career drop goals.
• Should CJ van der Linde score a try, he will equal the Springbok record for most tries in Tests as a prop. The current record is jointly held by Chris Koch and Os du Randt with 5 career tries.
• Wayne Barnes of England will officiate as referee in his sixth Test match involving South Africa. Of the previous five tests South Africa have won three and lost two.

Other notable record holders are:

• Butch James – Most capped Springbok flyhalf – 36.
• Jaque Fourie – Most capped Springbok centre – 50, top try scorer as centre for the Springboks - 25.
• John Smit – Most capped Springbok hooker – 86, most capped Springbok forward – 101.
• Victor Matfield – Most capped Springbok lock – 100.
• Schalk Burger – Most tries in tests as a Springbok flank – 12, also most capped Springbok flank – 60.
• Pierre Spies – Most tries in tests as a Springbok No.8 – 7.

By AAP

Frustrated and annoyed, the Wallabies are itching for another crack at South Africa and believe the holy grail of a win at altitude is achievable in Bloemfontein this weekend.

Still stinging after Saturday's 44-31 capitulation to the Springboks in Pretoria after making a perfect start to the match, Australia say they have already shown they have the winning game-plan if they can just hang onto the ball.

They will yet again be seeking a first win at altitude in South Africa since 1963 at Vodacom Park on Saturday.

"It's frustration and I'm pretty sure everyone's pissed off and I hope everyone's pissed off," lock Nathan Sharpe said as the side headed into camp near Durban.

"The feeling in the team is it is very well achievable, the goal of winning on the high veldt, and that's what we want to do this weekend.

"We've got to shelve the disappointment and make it work for us in terms of even greater motivation, but we can't compromise ourselves and get a terrific start like that then not capitalise on it."

Some blunt messages are expected to be delivered this week after captain Rocky Elsom told the side to toughen up immediately after the Loftus Versfeld match, and the usually tight-lipped skipper was continuing the straight talking on Sunday.

"We don't like losing and we lost so it's very hard to take," he said.

"Obviously we didn't win the match and we're annoyed about that, but it's important just to focus on what's going to help us, not necessarily trying to fix every single thing."

Elsom said winning possession would be the focus in the lead-up to the Mandela Challenge Cup decider.

"On both of our set pieces we didn't perform in the way we wanted to, our drilling wasn't up to where it should be and we were below our best, which is pretty hard to take given that we've had a bit of time to prepare for this," Elsom said.

"We can't really have that volatility because it's not as if we're playing some of the lesser sides in the world."

But Elsom is adamant the Wallabies have the game-plan to topple the Boks after a 30-13 win in Brisbane and the near miss in Pretoria.

"If it wasn't clear before it's very clear now that our game-plan and the patterns that we run work for us, they absolutely do and what we need to do is support that by providing a stable platform for it," he said.

Crucially for the struggling Wallabies lineout, Sharpe (ankle) will be right for Bloemfontein but Scott Higginbotham (back) is hoping to return in the following week's clash with the All Blacks in Sydney.

With a long injury list, changes are unlikely to the 22, although benchmen Stephen Moore, James Slipper and Ben McCalman could all be considered for promotion to the starting XV.

By Sanjay Deva

The Springboks started off poorly against the Wallabies, but finished the stronger of the two sides in their 44-31 victory at Loftus Versfeld.

Until the last try to JP Pietersen in the 80th minute, the game was either side's for the taking.

The stats show that Australia enjoyed the greater territory and possession, but became increasingly less effective as the match wore on and they became affected by the altitude.

Their decision to stay in Cape Town until two days prior to kick off may have been a mistake, as they hoped to emulate the All Blacks and finish stronger than the Boks.

The Springboks were able to force the Wallabies into playing to the Bok strengths, and the lineout steals reflect this.

Most of the other stats were remarkably similar, indicated by the fact the game was in the balance until the last minute, but the 31 missed tackles by the Wallabies may have been the key statistic.

It was also evident how poor the tackling was throughout the match, with 52 missed tackles. This led to first phase play being effective for both sides, and is reflected in both sides rarely taking the ball past seven phases.

Well, after supporting five losing teams in a row (I support the Wallabies when they're not playing the Boks), I was very hopeful of finally supporting a winning team. We did after all have home ground advantage!

So it was not to be, but I have to say I was extremely impressed by the way the Boks played on Saturday. This week's game against the Wallabies will be a great match. Of course, play maker Quade Cooper is back in the squad and has been in Cape Town for almost two weeks, so they're going to be a tough team to beat.

I believe the only reason we lost was because Morne Steyn kicked those to pathetic kicks. I can maybe forgive him for the one, kicking it dead from our own 10m line -- it was close, so I can live with that. However, kicking it dead from a penalty on our 10m line, that cannot be forgiven! So twice we had an advantage and our forwards had to run back demoralised…no wonder they ran out of steam in the last five minutes. Just enough time for the All Blacks to pounce. I guess I've never been a huge fan of his anyway…even less of a fan of the Kiwi commentator who kept calling him Francois Steyn! And Derick Hougaard, the boy from Citrusdal, being called Francois Hougaard? No wonder he left the field.

Derick Hougaard played a brilliant game in my eyes. A very worthy replacement for our first choice number nine. Other players that impressed were De Jong, who had a great game, and, of course Aplon. Wow, what a game and what a tackle. Very impressive. Let one person try and tell me anyone in our back line was there because of a quota system!

Juan Smit, too, had an unbelievable game and totally tamed Richie McCaw. Now if only he can inspire Pierre Spies to get off his backside and put some effort in. The man is a machine, but I think he needs an oil change.

Springbok coach Peter de Villiers says he had to make some tough choices when selecting the starting XV to face the Wallabies in a Vodacom Tri-Nations clash at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

The starting line-up shows two changes from the one that went down 22-29 against the All Blacks last week with Frans Steyn starting at fullback in place of Gio Aplon and Jaque Fourie returning to replace Juan de Jongh.

De Jongh moves to the bench, in place of Wynand Olivier, whilst Aplon falls out of the match 22.

“How do you tell a guy who has played well that he is not part of the team, or is on the bench?” De Villiers lamented at a press conference in Pretoria on Monday.

“But that is part and parcel on my job as coach that sometimes I must make unpopular decisions. The reality is that there are only 15 places in the starting line-up and I have to do what I believe is best for the team.

“Juan (de Jongh) will be a great one day but Jaque Fourie is one already. He has played 60 tests and, with the exception of his yellow card in Brisbane, has done well for us all season,” De Villiers said.

“Gio did not do anything wrong, but we have an opportunity to see Frans play. He also offers us another kicking option which will take some pressure off Morné Steyn.”

Frans Steyn last played a Test against Wales in Cardiff on June 5 and rejoined the squad this week after being unavailable for the All Blacks test. Fourie, meanwhile, returns from a four-week suspension after he was yellow-carded in the opening minutes of the previous clash with the Wallabies in Brisbane last month.

Juan Smith, who was the only injury concern after the All Blacks game, has been cleared and is included in the run-on XV.

There is one change amongst the reserves with Ryan Kankowski, who joined the squad on Monday, preferred as loose forward cover ahead of Francois Louw. Kankowski looked sharp for the Sharks in their win over Western Province in the Currie Cup last weekend and his speed could be a factor if he is used from the bench at the weekend.

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that Aplon, Olivier and Louw will be released to the provinces and will be available for Absa Currie Cup selection at the weekend.

By Sanjay Deva

After four consecutive losses in this year's Tri-Nations, Peter de Villiers deserves to be playing for his job in the next two matches against Australia.

I have always been prepared to give de Villiers my support, and think optimistically of his ability, but the time has come for the Springbok coach to deliver.

SARU President Oregan Hoskins has stated that Peter de Villiers was appointed on more than just rugby coaching credentials. At the end of the day however, a coach needs to be responsible for results.

Results

In 2008 De Villiers inherited a World Cup winning squad, and came last in the Tri-Nations. The end of year tour was average until the last game against England.

In 2009, the Boks won everything there was to win with the British and Irish Lions series, the Tri-Nations, the Nelson Mandela plate (against Australia) and the Freedom Cup (against New Zealand).

I saw firsthand just how happy and content the majority of the squad was, and praised De Villiers for stepping back from the limelight when the players won.

The 2009 end of year tour, however, was a disaster with losses to Leicester, Saracens, France and Ireland.

2010 has been way below average, and there are signs the Boks are regressing rather than progressing. Coming after both the Bulls and Stormers dominated the Super 14, De Villiers has been outcoached by sides with lesser talent.

In his three years in charge, De Villiers has little to show for his time, baring a first ever win in Dunedin, New Zealand, and last years Lions series and Tri-Nations. Considering the talent he has at his disposal, I would suggest that is just not good enough.

Responsibility

Off the field De Villiers has been a joke. We can no longer put up with his metaphors and ramblings without backing it up on the field. Most disappointing has been his refusal to accept blame for defeats, there is always an excuse.

While I accept the Boks are often on the receiving end of poor decisions, the coach has to take responsibility and lead from the front.

Tactics

Tactically De Villiers has been found wanting. The composition and use of the bench leaves much to be desired, and some of his selections such as Davon Raubenheimer and Bandise Maku have just been poor.

The biggest issue I see with the Boks is the lack of constructive play. We have such great backs, but they never get the ball in space. This is because the side rarely takes the ball through phases, can hold onto the ball, and run into space.

After returning from overseas De Villiers said, “The problems have been identified and we have made small adjustments. But what I really think went wrong was that we were caught up in two styles of play. In the past when the Sharks and Bulls dominated our team, they both had similar styles of play, but now that it is the Bulls and Stormers dominating things aren't the same.”

“We perhaps took it for granted that everyone was in the same place and never took the necessary time or had the necessary time to make sure everyone was on the same page. We've fixed that,” said De Villiers.

If that is the case, it indicates a very confused and poorly coached side.

New Coach?

When looking at the Bulls and Stormers one sees two very well-coached outfits. They progress each season, and from week to week. When they suffer a loss they learn, rectify their mistakes and do not lose 2 weeks in a row. The same should apply to the Boks.

When looking at the winning percentages of Richie McCaw/Graham Henry v John Smit/Peter de Villiers, there is a massive difference. Like most Bok supporters I don't accept mediocrity, and excuses.

Oregan Hoskins has stated that De Villiers' coaching job is safe, and he will be the coach until after the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Even if De Villiers beats the Aussies twice I think he should step down. If he loses one he'll feel the pressure, and if he does the unthinkable and loses both games, he may have the backing of his bosses, but he'll feel the heat from the South African rugby public!

A change of coach is not ideal, especially just over 12 months from a World Cup. Stormers and Western Province coach Allister Coetzee could step and in and take the job, but I'd rather see Jake White return.

White has publicly stated he wants his old job back. He knows the majority of the players and could take over very easily. He may also not be the world's greatest attacking coach, but he'd give the side great structure, and have a clear idea of how he wants the Boks to defend their world title.

I know I'd be much more confident heading into the Rugby World Cup with Jake White at the helm!

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By AAP

David Pocock is ready for a physical onslaught from the Boks and says that there's not much he can do about being targeted for an all-out physical assault by South Africa.

Fast building a reputation as one of the world's best openside flankers, Pocock has attracted the attention of Springboks coach Peter de Villiers as he formulates a physical game-plan for the Loftus Versfeld clash.

"It happens and you can't do too much about it," Pocock said.

"It's a case of on the field try and play your normal game and, if you have to, trying to work around it.

"We're expecting a very fired up and passionate Springboks. You've just got to be a bit sharper and be looking up for the big fellas trying to bash you around the ruck, so it's good fun."

The Australians are wary of the return of big-kicking Boks fullback Francois Steyn, dismissing suggestions from the coach of his French club that he is not ready for Test match rugby.

Pierre Berbizier cast doubt on Steyn's readiness for his first Test since May after Top 14 club Racing Metro reluctantly released the star, claiming he needed treatment on an injury.

"He's a solid player, good under the high ball, has got a very big kick and I think, regardless of his form in France, when he pulls on that Springbok jersey he'll be ready for it," Pocock said.

"We're expecting him to be at his best." Australia are looking for their first win at Loftus Versfeld and first on the South African highveld since 1963.

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans was to release the name of his team on Thursday, with star five-eighth Quade Cooper available again after a two-match suspension.

Victor Matfield will become only the third player to play 100 Tests for South Africa as the Springboks and Wallabies take each other on for the 70th time since their first encounter in 1933 at Newlands.

Of the past 69 tests South Africa won 40, lost 28 and drawn one for a win percentage of 58%.

South Africa's Tri-Nations record against Australia is: Played 32; Won 17; Lost 14; Drawn 1. South Africa scored 62 tries and conceded 69.

Only four tests between the two rivals were played at this venue previously with South Africa triumphant on all four occasions. South Africa scored 117 and conceded 56 points for an average score of 29-14 at Loftus Versfeld.

Victor Matfield will play his 100th test, only the third Springbok to achieve this milestone. This test will also be his 41st Tri-Nations test, the joint second most capped player with George Smith of Australia. George Gregan is heading the list with 48 caps. He will also become the most capped Springbok against Australia in his 21st test against the Aussies.

John Smit will play in his 75th test as captain. Should John score a try, he will equal the Springbok record for most tries in tests as a hooker. The current record is jointly held by James Dalton and Bismarck du Plessis with five career tries. John will be playing in his 27th Tri-Nations test as captain, the most capped captain in the tournament.

Bryan Habana needs one try to become South Africa's most prolific try scorer in tests. Bryan currently shares the record with Joost van der Westhuizen with 38 test tries. He needs two tries to equal Breyton Paulse's career record of seven tries against Australia. Bryan is the most capped Springbok wing.

Jaque Fourie will play in his 50th test as centre, the first Springbok centre to achieve this milestone. He is also the top try scorer for the Springboks as a centre with 25 career tries.

Frans Steyn needs one drop goal to become the sole Springbok record holder for most career drop goals against Australia. The current record is two, jointly held by Percy Montgomery, André Pretorius and Steyn.

Morné Steyn is one of only eight players who scored more than 100 career points in the Tri-Nations (134 in 10 appearances). Dan Carter tops the list with 426 points in 30 appearances. Morné needs one drop goal to equal André Pretorius' tournament record of four career drop goals.

Should CJ van der Linde score a try, he will equal the Springbok record for most tries in tests as a prop. The current record is jointly held by Chris Koch and Os du Randt with five career tries.

Should Pierre Spies score a try, he will become the sole Springbok record holder for most tries in tests as an eighthman. The current record of six career tries is jointly held by Gary Teichmann, Joe van Niekerk, Bob Skinstad and Spies.

The career record of tries scored in the Tri-Nations is 16 by Christian Cullen. The most career tries by a Springbok are seven scored by Breyton Paulse, Jaque Fourie and Bryan Habana. The most career tries for an Australian player in the tournament are nine by Stirling Mortlock.

Alain Rolland of Ireland will officiate as referee in his 12th test match involving South Africa. Only Paddy O'Brien from New Zealand officiated in 12 tests involving South Africa.

Other notable record holders:

Butch James: Most capped Springbok flyhalf – 34.

John Smit: Most capped Springbok hooker – 85, most capped Springbok forward – 100.

Victor Matfield: Most capped Springbok lock – 99.

Schalk Burger: Most tries in tests as a flank – 12, also most capped Springbok flank – 59.

Reserves:

Jake White went through a similar test in 2006, and only barely held on thanks to an Andre Pretorius drop goal. It may take something similar to rescue Peter de Villiers.

De Villiers no longer has the excuse of his first year in charge, the end of a long season or anything else to fall back on. He had the dominant international side of last year to work with, arguably the two best provincial sides in the world, and one of the most experienced Test sides ever.

However the results this year have been substandard.

I've always been prepared to back de Villiers rather than view him as a political appointment. I want to believe in him. I saw how brilliant he could be last year, with a happy squad around him, and a coach prepared to leave the accolades to the players and sink into the background when the plaudits came.

This year I see a different man. We need the De Villiers from last year.

This year De Villiers has played the blame game. Overseas clubs have not co-operated, the Boks have been unfairly treated by the referees, the yellow cards weren't warranted, the TV stations vilified the Boks, and now Western Province don't want to help the national side.

Whilst he may have valid points, this is not good enough. It's not proactive. It's not ubuntu, and it's not leading South Africa.

Lead South Africa (http://www.leadsa.co.za/) is a powerful new initiative designed to empower all South Africans to change ourselves and our country. We all have the ability to lead, and to stand up for South Africa.
C'mon Peter de Villiers. More than ever we need you to take responsibility and accept there are factors that will conspire against the Boks. Be the bigger man. Look for solutions rather than problems.

Copy courtesy http://rugby.sanjaydeva.com/news/

Lock Flip van der Merwe and scrumhalf Francois Hougaard get their maiden test starts when the Springboks face New Zealand on Saturday. The selection also sees the return to test action of 2007 World Cup stalwarts Juan Smith and JP Pietersen.

The match 22 to play the All Blacks was confirmed by coach Peter de Villiers at a press conference this week. The team shows eight changes to the one that played in the final tour match against Australia in Brisbane last month.

Van der Merwe starts ahead of the experienced Danie Rossouw, who is on the bench. Rossouw has been receiving treatment for a hip flexor injury during the week and whilst it was possible for him to start the Test, de Villiers decided otherwise.

“Danie would have been fine to start, we just thought it was the right decision not to start him,” de Villiers said.

In other changes in the pack Jannie du Plessis returns at tighthead after missing the last two tour matches with a calf injury and flanker Juan Smith makes a welcome return on the side of the scrum after last playing a Test against Australia in Brisbane in 2009.

Smith said he was looking forward to resuming his backrow partnership with Schalk Burger and Pierre Spies.

“Schalk, Pierre and I have played as a combination at this level for the past three or four years, so the fact that I've missed the first seven Tests shouldn't make a difference.

“I also don't think there should be any concern about the make-up of the loose trio. We've all been playing under the new laws in the Super 14 and understand what we have to do in that combination,” he added.

Hougaard is one of several changes to the backline that sees the return to the fold of winger JP Pietersen, who last played against Ireland at the end of 2009. Pietersen replaces Gio Aplon, who moves to fullback in place of the injured Zane Kirchner.

There is a new centre combination with Jean de Villiers and Juan de Jongh starting in the midfield. They replace Wynand Olivier, who moves to the bench, and Jaque Fourie, who is serving a suspension.

Both coach De Villiers and vice-captain Victor Matfield heaped praise on Hougaard.

“He is a player you can take to war, he has a good rugby brain and this is an opportunity for him to show us what he has. He has a chance to cement a place in the team,” De Villiers said.

“He is a great player and has looked sharp starting at No 9 for the Bulls in the last two weeks,” Matfield added. There is one change on the bench with Francois Louw returning to the match 22 after missing the Test against the Wallabies in Brisbane.

Matfield said the Boks knew where they had to improve to put things right at the weekend.

“We were 10 to 15% under par and we'll have to set those things right. We need to improve several areas of our game and know that if we play to our potential we can get the win,” Matfield said.

The Bok team for Saturday is: Gio Aplon, JP Pietersen, Juan de Jongh, Jean de Villiers, Bryan Habana, Morné Steyn, Francois Hougaard, Pierre Spies, Juan Smith, Schalk Burger, Victor Matfield, Flip vd Merwe, Jannie du Plessis, John Smit (c), Gurthrö Steenkamp. Reserves: Chiliboy Ralepelle, CJ vd Linde, Danie Rossouw, Francois Louw, Ricky Januarie, Butch James, Wynand Olivier.

By Sanjay Deva

When the Springboks take on the All Blacks at FNB Stadium in Soweto, in what will be a historic occasion in itself, John Smit will make history as only the second Springbok to play 100 test matches for the Boks.

The other Springbok to record this achievement is Percy Montgomery, and Smit has the chance to equal his record of 102 caps if he plays all 3 home Tri-Nations fixtures over the next 3 weekends.
It is a fantastic accomplishment and an honour befitting of a great player, leader and role model.

I have seen close up what a fantastic example he sets, and the respect within the squad for a dedicated individual.

In his recent biography Captain in the Cauldron, one gains an insight into the man, and just how passionate Smit is about the Boks, and how important the team is ahead of individuals.

Smit is a tough character, he has played under four Springbok coaches, played every front row position, and been Mr Dependable for the Boks.

I don't believe he was a great captain when he started, but he has become one as he has been prepared to learn from his experiences.

Whether or not he is the best hooker in South Africa on current form is debatable, but there is no doubt he has the heart of a lion, will die for his country, and deserves a massive ovation when he leads out the Springboks for his 100th test.

Well done John Smit, and thank you for leading South Africa!

Copy courtesy http://rugby.sanjaydeva.com/news/

The starting XV features just two changes from the team that beat Australia 20-10 in Christchurch earlier this month: Jimmy Cowan returns from injury and starts at halfback, with Piri Weepu moving to the bench, while prop Ben Franks gets his third Test start in the number 3 jersey, replacing younger brother, Owen. Meanwhile, in other reserve changes, prop John Afoa comes onto the bench, with fullback Israel Dagg providing outside back cover.

The coach said the All Blacks were expecting to face a “very different” Springboks side from the one that lost two matches in New Zealand in the opening rounds of the Tri-Nations.

“They will be hugely motivated to turn around those results and we are expecting a hugely physical encounter,” he said.

“Playing the Springboks in Soweto in front of 90,000 plus fans – it doesn't get much bigger than this. It's going to be a marvellous occasion, a massive challenge and one which the team is really looking forward to.”

In milestones for the match, hooker Keven Mealamu will join former All Blacks lock Ian Jones as the joint fifth-most capped All Black. Daniel Carter may become the highest All Blacks points scorer against South Africa: he is currently sitting on 207 points, two behind former All Blacks first five-eighth Andrew Mehrtens. Meanwhile, Josevata Rokocoko (on nine tries) is one try from equalling former All Blacks fullback Christian Cullen's record (10) of most tries scored against South Africa.

The All Blacks have played South Africa 80 times since 1921 with 44 wins to the All Blacks, 33 to the Springboks, and just three draws. The All Blacks last played South Africa earlier this year in New Zealand in the opening matches of the Investec Tri Nations, beating them 32 – 12 in Auckland and 31 – 17 in Wellington. The two teams last met in South Africa last year in Durban when the All Blacks went down 31 – 19. The last Test between the sides in Johannesburg was in 2004 when South Africa was victorious 40 – 26. The last time the All Blacks won in the city was the 35 – 32 nail biter in 1997.

1. Tony Woodcock (67)
2. Keven Mealamu (78)
3. Ben Franks (6)
4. Brad Thorn (44)
5. Tom Donnelly (11)
6. Jerome Kaino (31)
7. Richie McCaw – captain (87)
8. Kieran Read (23)
9. Jimmy Cowan (39)
10. Daniel Carter (73)
11. Josevata Rokocoko (65)
12. Ma'a Nonu (50)
13. Conrad Smith (39)
14. Cory Jane (19)
15. Mils Muliaina (87)

Reserves:
16. Corey Flynn (11)
17. John Afoa (23)
18. Samuel Whitelock (7)
19. Victor Vito (4)
20. Piri Weepu (42)
21. Aaron Cruden (5)
22. Israel Dagg (4)

A four day training camp to finalise the Springbok squad for the South Africa leg of the Tri-Nations got underway in Johannesburg on Tuesday.

A group of 29 players were assembled and expected to be trimmed to 24 by the end of the week. The final squad will assemble in Johannesburg on Sunday, and the match 22 for the test will be announced next Tuesday.

The first test of the home leg is against the All Blacks on August 21.

The players took part in a fitness and game phases training session at Hyde Park High School on Tuesday afternoon and will hold further sessions during the week.

“The players have had a break to reflect on the disappointments of the tour and they understand what is needed to turn things around,” said coach Peter de Villiers.

“We have identified the areas that need improvement and will be focusing on these in the build-up to the first test.”

De Villiers said: “There is a very good mood in the camp and a clear determination amongst the players to get things back on course.”

The group includes the bulk of the squad that did duty during the away leg of the competition, with only Andries Bekker and Ruan Pienaar unavailable due to injury.

Three players have been recalled – Cheetahs flank Juan Smith and Sharks wing JP Pietersen, who have made a successful return from injury, and Racing Metro fullback Frans Steyn, who last played against Wales in June.

Two more players who are returning from injury – Sharks hooker Bismarck du Plessis and Cheetahs flank Heinrich Brussöw – have been invited to join the group.

Centre Jaque Fourie is serving a suspension and cannot be considered for selection for the Johannesburg test on August 21.

All 26 players named on Tuesday have taken to the field for New Zealand this season, with the team unbeaten and boasting a 3-0 Tri-Nations series start.

The four players added to the 22-man squad who retained the Bledisloe Cup by beating the Qantas Wallabies 20-10 in Christchurch last Saturday were fullback Israel Dagg, prop John Afoa, lock Anthony Boric and outside back Rene Ranger.

Southland halfback Jimmy Cowan, who missed the Test against Australia due to a rib injury, has been bracketed with Alby Mathewson, who debuted off the reserves bench in Christchurch, pending the outcome of a fitness test on Thursday.

The All Blacks selectors opted for training squad members loose forward Liam Messam and midfield back Richard Kahui to remain in New Zealand.

Kahui has been sidelined in recent weeks due to a shoulder injury.

All Blacks squad:

Forwards: John Afoa, Anthony Boric, Tom Donnelly, Corey Flynn, Ben Franks, Owen Franks, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw, Keven Mealamu, Kieran Read, Brad Thorn, Victor Vito, Samuel Whitelock and Tony Woodcock.

Backs: Daniel Carter, Jimmy Cowan/Alby Mathewson, Aaron Cruden, Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Mils Muliaina, Ma'a Nonu, Rene Ranger, Joe Rokocoko, Conrad Smith, Benson Stanley and Piri Weepu.

When last did you see a team like the Blacks being refused the right to have their captain's run at the venue where the game is to be played? It made me think whether we in South Africa make things too easy for the opposing side? We provide them with the best hotels, good planes, easy schedules and the best food.

I reckon we should let them fly on a low cost airline and let them practise on a gravel strip in Lainsburg! But, oh, we still have the biggest weapon to be used and that, of course, is the vuvuzela. Everyone outside of South Africa seems to hate it.

It is powerful. My mother-in-law uses this instrument to call her husband on the farm when he needs to come and eat or help at the farm house. Imagine what 50,000 people can do blowing it at a Tri-Nations game? Not only will we distract the opposition, we will irritate, annoy and upset them. They will not hear the calls and they will not hear the ref (this opens up a flood of possibilities).

Do not misunderstand me, I love my Boks, but the way we are playing at the moment I think we need all the help we can get. And if that comes in the form of the vuvuzela, well, why not? The vuvuzela is far more civilised than the methods used in the 80's…Remember Newlands and Naas Botha taking aim at the poles only to be struck my a well aimed orange?

I am not suggesting we go that far, but I miss the fun that we had at games and before the matches, the banter between the supporters and the build up. I am so glad to see the traditional three match test tours over a month or more are to return.

I remember so clearly the Kavaliers coming to South Africa to play the Boks. Do you remember Gary Knight striking Gert Smal? Gert turned and knocked him out cold, and then there was the try scored in the corner by Carel du Plessis after a cross kick from the general himself.

The support for the Boks was amazing, but we were rewarded with a team that gave it all. These longer tours allow the supporters to get to know the opposition, as a team and the way they play, there were many long conversations around team selection and discussion on the travel plans to get to Loftus. Are we taking the overnight train or flying up? It was fun.

But for now we need to help the Boks, so buy your vuvulelas, get on the trains, planes and even your bicycles, but get to the game and blow your vuvuzela as hard as you can. You are doing it for your country after all.

History tells us that Boks haven't won a rugby game in Brisbane since 1971, that they've only won three away matches in the Tri-Nations in Australia out of 19 since 1996. There was one draw. Without fail the venue was Perth — why do the Ozzies even play us there? The victories came during times when the Boks had a significant ascendancy. What's everyone complaining about? We were always going to lose on Saturday against the Ozzies in the third Tri-Nations game of 2010. We've never even come within seven points in Brisbane.

There's only one game in town and that's WC 2011 in New Zealand.

There was a brief moment on Saturday during which I was a rank optimist. With the Springboks training 3-23, I whispered to a friend at the Western Province Cricket Club: “Here's the dream. Three converted tries. Boks will win 24-23.” He laughed and sipped on a gigantic Castle bomber. Butch James was on. Wynand Olivier and Morne Steyn were off. The Boks were starting to gain momentum. Try! Jacques Fourie wriggled over after sustained pressure. One down, two to go. “It's happening!” I yelled. I could sense victory, the dejected Suncorp fans trudging home to their unsmiling wives. But then the bearded face of my old history teacher came into vision. He smiled as Ruan Pienaar stepped up to take the conversion. I saw it all before he took the kick. It was merely a question of on which side he was going to miss. Then the Boks did score the second try and Ruan missed again, 13-23 should have been 17-23. Game on!

So Will Genia scored a late try and the final score looked a bit nasty. But if we'd been 17-23 with eight minutes to go in Brisbane, what a finish it would have been.

I would like to have seen Juan de Jongh start. If Jean de Villiers and Jacques Fourie are the World Cup centres then Juan should be back up. If we could get Frans Steyn back at fullback (to kick) then Butch James could start at flyhalf. He immediately added pace and variation to the backline. Someone seems to like Wynand Olivier. He has 32 Test caps, 20 starts and 12 subs, 1 try! Sixteen of those games have been won and 16 lost. If we take out Italy's and so forth then his Tri-Nations record reads: played 14 (10 starts): won 4, 28.57%. A similar record to De Wet Barry. Jacque Fourie, to compare a successful centre, has scored 29 tries in 60 matches. His Tri-Nations record is 52.38%.

History doesn't lie. But it's not all doom and gloom. If we look back to 2006, the year before the 2007 World Cup triumph, the history gods tell a story of woe and despondency. It was the first time the sides played each other three times in the Tri-Nations. Like 2010, the Boks travelled first and lost all three of their away games, the first in Brisbane by 49-0. They even lost their first home game against the All Blacks at Loftus Versveld. They then sneaked home 21-20 and 24-18 in their final two games to prop up the bottom of the table. “White must go!” one headlined screamed. “Play Watson or else!” said another. Ball handling was poor. So was retention of possession. Defences were flimsy.

White prevailed and the Boks won WC 2007. I hate making predictions but I am sure we will do better on the home leg of Tri-Nations 2010. I am not as sure that the De Villiers/Gold/Muir combination has the wherewithal to create the strategy, the systems and the motivation to prepare the team for a successful defence in 2011.

Peter Church is the author of the edgy thriller Dark Video, published by New Holland in Australia in 2009. He's currently working on a follow-up to Dark Video.

After 24 hours of flying we returned home to SA shores to an understandably frosty reception earlier this week.

To say that the tour was not a success would be the understatement of the year. And while many of you rugby supporters are understandably annoyed and irritated with the team's performances, it is our responsibility – and job – to not get caught up in a wave of emotion but, rather, objectively and systematically go about fixing the problem. Something which Peter de Villiers, as the head coach, is very good at doing.

I am going to stay away from quoting all the many clichés pertaining to how much one learns in defeat and from failure. However, at the same time, it is important to mention that they are clichés because they are, indeed, true.

I believe that the cardinal rule about learning from our losses is that we need to focus our time and attention on the issues that we can control – in so doing we need to be honest and harsh about the things that we have done wrong; as an entire group. That said, I truly believe whilst there certainly were other external factors that aided our poor performances, spending time moaning and deliberating over these issues is counter-productive and takes our focus away from fixing the areas of our game that we can control.

An exercise like this is an interesting one, and one that can be derailed if we are to read, or believe, the many opinions from the media and over-zealous supporters at present – as it might focus too much attention on those specific areas we cannot have a direct control over.

For example, it is the popular view that we kicked too much in our three matches in Australasia...In fact, upon reflection of the match statistics against New Zealand (in both matches) they actually kicked more ball out of hand than we did. However, what is unquestionable is that their kicks – in their intentions and execution – were all superior to those of ours. Their kicks were on target more often and their chase was aggressive and accurate; in fact, their entire kicking strategy put us under similar pressure to what we did to them last year.

You see, friends, what is really important is that we get to the bottom of whether our intended strategy and plan is wrong, as is widely report, or simply our execution. I believe the latter. Our kicks were generally inaccurate, we chased and aligned poorly and then failed on far too many occasions to make the first-time tackle intended to pin them deep in their own 22 – which, of course, exerts pressure and hopefully leads to turnovers. That is why I firmly believe, and clearly like New Zealand do, that the strategy is good – but on this tour our execution was far below our acceptable standard.

Another common view reported is that as a team we have not advanced with the game to the same level that Australia and New Zealand have. Again, there is an interesting irony of a theory that I would like to share with you.

At last November's SANZAR conference; the Super 14 teams from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa were told in no uncertain terms that four areas of the game were going to be heavily policed and teams not adhering to the refreshed interpretations of these four areas would be heavily penalised and thus be left behind. (The area that was most significantly going to be managed would be the breakdown – with particular attention to the defending team allowing the attacking team to generate quick ball.)

There is no doubt that South Africa's Super 14 teams – through some astute coaching – adapted magnificently; an example of that is the team that conceded the most penalties in the 2010 Super 14 were the Crusaders, followed by the Hurricanes. In all, the Crusaders conceded 90 penalties; of those 75 penalties were conceded whilst on defence – mainly against effecting opposition from gaining quick ball.

As we know, the Super 14 culminated in two South African sides meeting in the final and I am sure none of our Antipodean teams would disagree that they were the two best teams throughout the competition.

How then, can it be possible that a few weeks later a Springbok team – made up largely of these same players – are now being accused of not 'keeping up' with how the game has advanced?

And, here lies the irony...

SANZAR instructed and initiated the new law interpretations and used 17 referees – from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa only – in 99 Super Rugby matches this season. Yet, to date, not one of those 17 referees have featured in the Tri-Nations (until this weekend – with our very own Craig Joubert in charge in Melbourne).

And, so, perhaps, a fairer accusation against us is not so much that we have not been able to adapt to how the game moves forward, but rather we should have adapted to the fact that the game would be going 'backwards' – and by 'backwards' I mean not according to the new interpretations. That – for me – is something we will need to address if I am, at all, correct in my observation.

Much has also been spoken about the deterioration of our defence and here we stand defenceless – literally – after conceding 10 tries in three matches. In last year's Tri-Nations, we conceded just 11 in the entire competition (in six matches). This is an area we will be giving massive attention to in the coming weeks as we build up to our next game in Soweto.

The team has always prided itself in its strong defence and in the past that strong defence has given us a favourable reward by being able to turn over opposition ball. I am confident that we can rectify it.

Whilst our performances have not been up to scratch in recent weeks, I simply cannot wait to get back into camp and, along with the rest of the group, work towards ending the Tri-Nations on a high.

We are a tight squad under Pete's leadership and nobody will shirk the hard work as we look to rectify our performances. Everybody in the Bok squad is very passionate about what they do, and how they do it, and there is a great camaraderie between everyone – all of whom have one goal; Bok victories.

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans says rugby fans should be salivating at the prospect of another head-to-head duel between Australian flanker David Pocock (who was born in Zimbabwe) and New Zealand captain Richie McCaw, according to an AAP report.

Deans said the Wallabies were extremely fortunate to have had Pocock in the team last Saturday, suggesting Australia's defeat could have been even worse without him.

“His game was immense. It's the only way you could describe it. Quite remarkable,” Deans said.

“But he does that every week. He's got a great capacity to give and it's very evident that he deserves the respect that he gets not only from his peers, but his opponents now because the awareness is out there.”

The Springboks have not won in their last seven attempts in Brisbane, and have yet to beat the Suncorp Stadium bogey, having never won at the ground.

At least the Boks can take solace from the fact they finally managed to score two tries, after having been held try-less in their previous four matches at Suncorp. That, however, is scant consolation for what was a third consecutive beating.

The Springboks were well beaten once again, and defeats by 20, 12 and now 17 points represent worrying signs for the side. Whereas in the past we've relied on getting back to South Africa to give us that edge, it doesn't look forthcoming just by home ground advantage, and it represents a significant backward step to limply concede their Tri-Nations title after just three matches.

Poor refereeing was once again a factor in the game, but it certainly did not cost the Boks who were simply not good enough on the night.

Shoddy defence

For the third match in a row, the Springboks conceded 30+ points. You will never win matches consistently with a leaky defence (and an ineffectual attack).

There were too many missed first time tackles, even after all the work put in this week with the tackle bags.

Defence is all about attitude. It says little about the Springbok side that for three weeks they've missed far too many first up tackles, and conceded 10 tries (whilst only scoring four).

On Saturday night the Wallabies out-thought and out-manoeuvred the Springboks by cleverly changing the direction of play, and exposing the Bok defence on the short side far too often.

It didn't help that Bryan Habana came out of the defensive line far too often and placed his side under pressure trying to cover his position. It's okay once or twice in a game, but not almost every time.

The Wallabies aren't world beaters

The Wallabies won the game by winning the battle of the breakdown. Greater energy and enthusiasm allowed them to dictate play as they had better quality ball and with the steady stream of penalties, playing from the front.

Will Genia, Quade Cooper and the back three of Drew Mitchell, James O'Connor and Adam Ashley-Cooper were made to look like world beaters, as the Springboks failed to pitch up. Had our tight five performed as they should, I'm sure they will look rather ordinary.

Worryingly, Will Genia was only returning from injury having played a game of club rugby. Whilst he admitted afterwards he was “blowing a bit,” he looked much sharper and quicker than any of the Boks.

Battle of the breakdown

The Wallabies won the battle of the breakdown quite emphatically. One of the things I noticed is that whenever the Boks were on attack (and it was a plan to attack with Kankowski and Spies wide of the ruck) they never had anyone on the ball carriers shoulder.

Half-breaks and offloads were never capitalised on, and when the ball carrier went to ground they either hung on too long, or turned the ball over as the Wallabies had the greater numbers.

I am not sure why this area is lacking in the Boks, is it lack of fitness and fatigue? (A sorry excuse even given the success of the Bulls and Stormers)

On defence, we were under pressure at the breakdown because we missed too many first-time tackles. There is no remedy for missed tackles.

The manner of defeat

Whilst three defeats on the road is nothing new for the Boks, the manner of defeat leaves a sour taste. Even at our peak last year, our biggest winning margin during the Tri-Nations was 12.

This year our average losing margin in the Tri-Nations has been just over 16 points! That is simply unacceptable from a Springbok side, and indicates we are not even close.

Are the Bok coaches brave enough?

Some brave decisions need to be made by the coaching staff.

Our tight five is not performing. Wynand Olivier is ineffectual. Bryan Habana needs to be dropped.

Francois Hougaard, Juan de Jongh and Dewald Potgieter have all shown they have a spark and deserve to be playing for the Boks. Will the selectors reward form and energy, or will they stick with the experienced mob who are failing to deliver? I'd like to remind them ‘fortune favours the brave'.

Article courtesy http://www.rugby.sanjaydeva.com/

The Boks decided that no Springbok player or member of management would speak to Fox until Cannon apologised on air.

Of course, Cannon was always going to apologise (whether he meant it or not) for the sake of Fox Sports' coverage and interviewing the Springbok side.

“I hereby wish to publicly apologise to Bok coach Peter de Villiers for comments I made about him on The Rugby Club TV programme on Wednesday evening. I am sorry if I offended him,” said Cannon on Fox Sports on Friday July 23.

However after the Wallabies thrashed the Springboks 30-13, Brendan Cannon made his way down to the Springbok post-match press conference (he did not attend the Wallaby press conference) representing Fox Sports.

He started off the questions, directed only at Springbok coach Peter de Villiers, and not the captain John Smit as he clearly had an agenda.

He asked a stressed and subdued Peter de Villiers: “Are you the right man to take the Springboks into the nest Rugby World Cup?” Cannon was clearly having a go at de Villiers, implying that he thought the Springbok coach was not the right man.

De Villiers could only reply with “You'll have to ask my employers.”

It was an interesting set of events. Cannon was well within his rights to do so, but I don't believe he acted with good sportsmanship, although De Villiers has not helped matters by seeking an apology for a comment that simply stated Cannon's views. As a Springbok coach, criticism comes with the territory and De Villiers needs to be thicker skinned with those of opinions.

I just hope de Villiers will end up with the last laugh at the completion of the 2011 Rugby World Cup, but for now, Brendan Cannon is probably feeling pretty smug!

Article courtesy http://www.rugby.sanjaydeva.com/

The South African Rugby Union (SARU) this week moved to dispel rumours of a rift in the Springbok team management.

SARU's national teams manager, Andy Marinos, who accompanied the Springboks on the away leg of the Tri-Nations, said that any such rumours are unfound and unwarranted.

“I've been with the Springboks for almost three weeks now and can categorically state there is no rift in the management team,” said Marinos.

“In my various discussions with Bok coach Peter de Villiers, his assistant coaches Dick Muir and Gary Gold, as well as senior team members John Smit and Victor Matfield, it's never once come up that there are problems in the camp.

“For three weeks in a row we have not played well and made it harder for ourselves by playing with only 14 players on the field at crucial time during the games, away from home.”

The Golden Lions Rugby Union announced this week that all available tickets for the Tri-Nations test between the Springboks and New Zealand on August 21 at National Stadium (formerly Soccer City) in Johannesburg have been sold.

The match is officially an 88,791 seat sell-out, making it the largest attendance for a Springbok test since 1955, should all ticket holders attend.

The last 5,000 tickets sold out on Monday.

Master coach Rod Macqueen has branded Saturday night's test as the Wallabies' most significant match leading into next year's Rugby World Cup as they'll measure themselves against an All Blacks outfit on the “verge of greatness”, according to a report from AAP.

“Australia have a (season) and a half coming into the next World Cup and this is going to be a litmus test for them,” Macqueen said.

“It is one of the more significant games in the last few years and particularly for Australia, I think this will be the most significant game for them. So close to the World Cup it's a great opportunity for them because they're not guessing, they'll know after this next game where they stand and what they have to do.”

From an article on the official South African rugby website following the Springbok's match on Saturday: “No injury concerns were reported from the Springboks match, though lock Nathan Sharpe lost a tooth in the physical clash and later had it returned to him after a team of ground staff were deployed to find it on the field.

Finding a tooth on a rugby field…that's almost like finding a needle in a haystack!

• It's been 13 years since the Springboks last scored a try at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane against the Wallabies.
• This will be the sixth test match between Australia and South Africa at this venue. Australia won all five previous encounters with scores 32-20 (1997), 32-6 (1999), 29-9 (2003), 49-0 (2006) and 21-6 (2009).
• Eighteen tries were scored by the Springboks and they conceded only three tries – all of them in the test match in 1997. In the last four tests South Africa did not cross Australia's try line.
• The losing margin of 49 in 2006 is the biggest losing margin against Australia in 68 tests and is South Africa's second biggest losing margin against any team.
• During last year's Tri-Nations tournament the Springboks lost their only test of the tournament at Suncorp. South Africa's only win at this venue was during the 2003 Rugby World Cup when they triumphed 60-10 against Samoa.

• Victor Matfield will play his 20^th test against Australia, thereby equalling Percy Montgomery's record of most capped Springbok against Australia.
• This test will be Matfield's 39^th Tri-Nations test, the third most capped player in the tournament with Stephen Larkham.
• Bryan Habana needs one try to become South Africa's most prolific try scorer in tests. Bryan currently shares the record with Joost van der Westhuizen on 38 test tries. Bryan will equal Breyton Paulse's record of most capped Springbok wing in this test.
• Morne Steyn is one of eight players who scored more than 100 career points in the Tri-Nations (114 in eight appearances). Morne needs one drop goal to equal Andre Pretorius' tournament record of four career drop goals.
• Should CJ van der Linde score a try, he will equal the Springbok record for most tries in tests as a prop.
• Should John Smit score a try, he will equal the Springbok record for most tries in tests as a hooker. John will be playing in his 25^th Tri-Nations test as captain, the most capped captain in the tournament.
• Should Pierre Spies score a try, he will become the sole Springbok record holder for most tries in tests as an eighthman.

• Jaque Fourie: Most tries in tests as a centre (24); also most capped Springbok centre (48)
• Butch James: Most capped Springbok flyhalf (34)
• John Smit: Most capped Springbok hooker (83); most capped Springbok forward (98); most capped Springbok captain (72), which is also a world record
• Victor Matfield: Most capped Springbok lock (97)
• Schalk Burger: Most tries in tests as a flank (11); most capped Springbok flank (58)

Springbok Ryan Kankowski has stressed that the Springboks' dreadful start in the Tri-Nations has made them more dangerous, and not left them vulnerable, according to a media report.

He said that South Africa was primed to show on Saturday why they are the reigning Tri-Nations champions.

“Any team coming off a loss will be more dangerous,” Ryan said. “You've got a point to prove and the way I look at it you are only as good as your last game and we didn't play to our potential the last two games. We want to pick each other up from the last two weeks and hopefully get it right.”

Captain John Smit was confident that Ryan and Ruan Pienaar would inject an X-factor into the Springboks game.

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans was expecting the best from the Springboks, according to the report.

“We know they will be grumpy and we know they will be wanting a result and they have communicated themselves the importance of away wins,” he said.

“They hold the trophy and they won't want to be letting that go so we expect the best of them.”

The Wallabies' preparation has gone to schedule, but the team is “keen to get underway”, coach Robbie Deans said this week.

“We've obviously been able to have a good look at both South Africa and New Zealand through their matches over the last two weeks. The imagery from those games has left our players with no doubt as to the magnitude of the task ahead,” he said.

“The competition features the top three sides in the world on the IRB rankings and we are chasing the other two.”

Australia boasted a strong historical dominance over South Africa from past matches in Brisbane, but the coach doubted that would count for anything this weekend, aside from perhaps offering additional motivation for the Springboks.

“It will be about the here and now – as it always is. Our team is significantly different even from that which played [against South Africa] in Brisbane last year, as is theirs. The players who were involved on our side from that occasion can take confidence from that experience, but it won't be worth any points for us on the score board once this game starts.”

The coach expected South Africa's defeats in New Zealand to add an element of desperation to their performance in Brisbane.

Quoted in New Zealand's The Southland Times, he said that the Australian side was young and South Africa needs points so the Wallabies had a game on their hands.

Asked about the 31-17 All Blacks victory, he said the Springboks weren't allowed to play against a dominant New Zealand.