VIDEO: No love lost as Boks prepare for Ireland
On the eve of the first Test between the Springboks and Ireland, it’s worth taking a trip down memory lane.
While the most recent clash between the two nations went the way of the Irish in 2014, the Springboks have had Ireland’s number over the years with the Boks having won 16 of their 22 meetings.
Ireland last toured South Africa back in 2004, with the hosts winning both matches. That tour formed the foundation of Jake White’s tenure as coach of the Boks. Supersport’s highlight package takes us back to the memorable tour and Bakkies Botha's two tries are always a treat.
Six years prior to that Test series, Gary Teichmann’s Springboks were made to work hard to beat the Irish. Former Cell C Sharks captain Stefan Terblanche starred in that first Test, scoring four tries, while the match was marred with ill-discipline as the Irish looked to unsettle the hosts.
In this day and age, brawls are few and far between and players face lengthy bans for any sort of foul play.
Nevertheless, the three Test series promises to serve up some bruising encounters.
The Boks face Ireland at 17h00 on Saturday in Cape Town.