Ireland veteran's verdict on Boks
SPOTLIGHT: One of Ireland’s most experienced backs had his say on the Springboks ahead of his side’s huge clash against the world champions.
Ireland dominated the Boks over the past decade, and another chapter will be written in their history this weekend in Dublin.
They’ve beaten the world champions five times in eight outings since 2016 and drew their 2024 two-Test series in South Africa 1-1.
For many, this weekend’s clash at the Aviva Stadium could be seen as the decider, albeit a year and four months later.
One player that’s been involved in many of those Ireland victories over the Boks is centre Robbie Henshaw.
The 84-timed-capped Irishman had nothing but praise for South Africa and described the fixture as a “proper Test” for his team.
“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 July 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.”
Ireland’s record 46-19 win over the Wallabies put them in a good space ahead of the clash against the Boks.
Henshaw believes that there is more to his side to finish the 2025 season on a positive note and deny South Africa a clean sweep of their Nations Series tour.
“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 [South Africa] 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.”
With additional reporting by @BBC
