Fresh off their 45-0 demolition of Italy in Gqeberha, the Springboks have wasted no time shifting gears as they touched down in Nelspruit on Sunday, kicking off preparations for this Saturday’s clash against Georgia at Mbombela Stadium. With the Castle Lager Rugby Championship looming, the Boks are treating this encounter as more than just a warm-up.
After an intense video review on Monday morning, the squad hit the gym and training pitch with a clear goal: maintain momentum, refine combinations, and build depth.
“We never underestimate any team,” assistant coach Deon Davids emphasised. “We know what Georgia’s DNA is. They’re physical, they’re passionate, and they’ve got something to prove – especially if they want to show they’re ready for the Six Nations.”
Indeed, Georgia’s narrow 24-20 loss to the Toyota Cheetahs last week offered the Boks a chance to analyse their opponents closely. The Eastern Europeans are no strangers to South Africa’s intensity, having last faced the Springboks in 2021. But this time, they arrive with added ambition and a point to prove.
Georgia Seen as More Than a Tune-Up
While fans may view this fixture as a formality, the Springbok camp certainly isn’t. “Every Test is important for us,” Davids added. “We’ve got our own standards, and we know where we want to be going into the Rugby Championship. This is a massive game to improve and build on what we’ve achieved.”
Lock forward Ruan Nortje echoed that sentiment. “Georgia are a tough team that have delivered strong performances in recent seasons. We’re preparing for an extremely physical and challenging match this weekend.”
Nortje, who is relishing another shot at action in Nelspruit, said he’s still buzzing from last year’s clash against Argentina. “The Mbombela Stadium is one of my favourite places to play,” he smiled. “The atmosphere, the people, the way they back the Boks – it’s something special. If I get the opportunity to play this weekend, I’ll grab it with both hands.”
All Eyes on the No 8 Jersey
While the squad is in good health and selection options are plentiful, one area of intrigue is the No 8 jersey. With Jasper Wiese facing a disciplinary hearing following his red card against Italy, Davids acknowledged the situation but remained confident.
“World Rugby have their process and we respect that. As a team, we’ll be there for Jasper no matter the outcome,” he said. “Fortunately, we’ve got depth. Evan Roos, Siya Kolisi, and Marco van Staden can all cover No 8 if needed.”
This adaptability could prove invaluable as the Boks seek to sharpen their combinations and test bench strength before bigger battles ahead.
A Brotherhood That Drives Excellence
Beyond tactics and team sheets, Nortje highlighted the camaraderie and learning culture in the Springbok setup as something that continually lifts the squad.
“This is a fantastic environment to be part of. Every player is privileged to be here, and when you get the opportunity, you have to make it count,” said the lock, who has enjoyed learning from the likes of Eben Etzebeth and RG Snyman.
“I try to soak up everything I can. You look at the guys we have in the second row – some of the best in the world – and you realise how much there is to learn every single day.”
Next Stop: Mbombela
With the match kicking off at 17h10 on Saturday and broadcast live on SuperSport, South African fans can expect a full-blooded affair. The Springboks may be favourites, but they’re leaving nothing to chance. For them, this is another building block on the road to defending their Rugby Championship crown – and more importantly, reinforcing the Springbok identity built on respect, intensity, and purpose.
