Robbie Henshaw on why the Springboks are the “talk of world rugby”
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Dublin showdown.
Ireland centre Robbie Henshaw has praised the Springboks ahead of their showdown at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin this weekend.
The two teams have built up quite the rivalry over the past few years, with fireworks almost guaranteed this weekend.
But there is a huge amount of respect between the two sets of players who will take the field on Saturday.
Henshaw says South Africa are “the talk of world rugby” at the moment, given their incredible run of form and ability to win no matter the circumstances.
The 32-year-old says this weekend’s game is gonna be a “proper test” for Ireland.
He also reckons Springboks will have the fact that the two teams drew their series in South Africa last year at the back of their minds, with many seeing this game as the unofficial third Test match between the two sides.
“I think they’re the talk of world rugby at the moment in terms of the strength in depth they have, the individual talent,” Henshaw said.
“They’re grinding out results… teams look like they have them, and then they find a way to get back.
“It’s a proper test for us to see where we’re at. We have gone toe-to-toe with them, from summer last year, it was one win each in that series, so I suppose they’ll be looking at that as well.
“It’s massively exciting because they’re such a proud nation as well and, you know, when we play against them here in Dublin, it’s always a thriller.”
Henshaw added that Ireland are aware that they will really need to front up physically this weekend against a powerful Springbok outfit.
“I think against Australia we conceded quite easily in the first half in that second 20 minutes when they got a roll on,” Henshaw added.
“So, with what’s coming, it’s more of that up-front physicality and big men running down our channels.
“I think we just need to meet them on the gainline and front up, and that’s a thing we’d have to look at, our physicality in around fringes and stopping the momentum of teams.”
