The secret behind Boks' successful centre combo

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Springbok centre Damian De Allende revealed the secret behind his successful midfield partnership with Lukhanyo Am.

Over the last two years, De Allende and Am have formed an amazing partnership that helped the Springboks win a Rugby Championship (2019), World Cup (2019) and a Lions series (2021).

While Jean De Villiers and Jaque Fourie remain the most iconic Springbok midfield combination, the 29-year-old De Allende and 27-year-old Am are gradually staking their claim at the title with each game.

This weekend the pair will front England in a repeat of the 2019 World Cup final.

Thus far the pair have started 10 Tests this year.

Speaking ahead of the clash against England, Springbok De Allende revealed communication is the key to their ever-improving partnership.

#SPOTLIGHT! @Springboks star Duane Vermeulen warns of a gruelling breakdown battle against @EnglandRugby
🗣️“They are really good at the breakdown,”#rugby #news #ENGvRSA https://t.co/Uoi4NxZJpK

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“We have a very strong relationship and I think it helps that we get along so well off the field,” De Allende said.

“Each game is different and has its own challenges but we are very composed on the field – especially  Lukhanyo Am.

“We chat a lot on the field and try to stay in the moment. Sometimes it doesn’t feel like we are in the game and at times we find it hard to get involved whether on defence or attack, but we talk to each other and we just stay ready for the next moment. Once we have that chance we grab it with both hands whether that is a big tackle or a steal at the breakdown or a nice play on attack.

“For the two of us, it is all about staying in the moment on the field.”

He added: “If he does something on the field I’m there to back him up and vice versa.

“Not every rugby game is the same and sometimes I make mistakes and he is there to help me out.

“It’s difficult to explain why we work so well together. However, I think it is just our communication on the field that helps a lot.”

Turning his attention to this Saturday’s match, the Bok said: “It is one more big push this weekend.

“We want to end the tour on a high because we won’t see each other for seven months afterwards.

“As a squad, we can sit down together on Saturday night and have a nice beer and look back on the year that has passed and smile about it and cherish those memories we have made.”

@leezil07
@rugby365com

#ICYMI: South Africa’s Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus and SA Rugby wasted no time to respond to World Rugby’s long-awaited verdict. #SouthAfrica #Springboks https://t.co/ifumHSrBZy

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