Springbok prop Trevor Nyakane is willing to go to a dark place against Argentina on Saturday, because he believes that’s where the visitors will take them to at Ellis Park.
The friendly 34-year-old veteran front-rower has not yet played a Test in the Green and Gold this year and with places up for grabs for the World Cup in France in September, he plans to hit the Pumas hard up front for the backs to do the running at the back in the Rugby Championship clash.
⏳ Up next in #TRC2023 = Argentina
— Springboks (@Springboks) July 24, 2023
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Known for their powerful pack, Nyakane, who will play off the bench, is quoted by SA Rugby as saying of Argentina: “It’s always a big challenge against Argentina. They’ve come a long way from being a team that just wants to be physical. They are big on their lineouts and scrums, and if one is not alert, they can put you under pressure.
“No matter how much one dominates, they never go away. They are very forward orientated, and they like to go to dark places where other teams don’t necessarily go.”
Able to pack down on both sides of the scrum, Nyakane’s versatility on the bench makes him a key member in any squad.
And while he hasn’t played yet for the Boks this year, he says: “It’s been a while since I’ve worn the jersey, so I’m very excited.
“It’s going to be a tough challenge and given the competition in this environment [within the Bok squad], we know as individuals we have to bring our best all the time and use the opportunity.”
He adds: “It’s going to be a tough game. Argentina are physical in the scrums, mauls and lineouts, so we have to man up. But I’m excited to go out there and express myself.”
The #Springboks know they are in for a tough challenge on Saturday, but they are ready to fire - more here: https://t.co/ixhDJ6IFxG 🔥#StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/Z0RslNEmus
— Springboks (@Springboks) July 26, 2023
Centre Damian de Allende, meanwhile, says while the forwards will tref up front, they will do the trapping at the back.
With halfbacks Grant Williams and Manie Libbok running the show, De Allende explains: “It’s exciting to play with Manie and Grant. They are electric, dynamic and skilful players, and I can’t wait to see how the game will play out with them taking control.”
The Springboks are four points behind log-leading New Zealand heading into the final round, with Argentina a further point behind in third and winless Australia in fourth.
dailyvoice@inl.co.za