Eddie on how Boks set benchmark in Paris
SPOTLIGHT: Veteran coach Eddie Jones believes South Africa’s 32-17 victory over France at the Stade de France underlines why they remain the benchmark in world rugby.
The Springboks overcame the odds, playing 40 minutes with 14 men after Lood de Jager was sent off for a shoulder charge on fullback Thomas Ramos.
Despite the setback, the world champions showed their trademark resilience, scoring three unanswered tries in the final 20 minutes to seal their biggest win over France in Paris since 1997.
Captain Siya Kolisi marked his 100th Test appearance – becoming the ninth Springbok centurion – while head coach Rassie Erasmus took charge of his 50th Test.
The result followed a commanding 61-7 win over Japan in London, adding further momentum to the Springboks’ impressive end-of-year campaign.
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“They scored 32 against France with 14 men,” Jones told the Rugby Unity podcast.
“It puts into perspective our [Japan] game, where they scored 60 with 15 and were playing at ‘home,’ because they consider London a home venue.
“Playing at the Stade de France is a pretty intimidating atmosphere – but not for the South Africans.”
Jones also praised the Boks’ squad depth and tactical flexibility.
After De Jager’s dismissal, Kolisi made way for a second-rower, Ruan Nortje, while André Esterhuizen, who replaced Damian de Allende, covered multiple roles across the backline.
Manie Libbok came off the bench to make an immediate impact, replacing Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who moved to fullback.
“Having players who can cover multiple positions is such a gift for a coach,” Jones said, adding: “It gives a team real flexibility.
“South Africa’s depth is probably better than anyone’s, and that’s what allows them to finish games so strongly.
“That’s a real credit to them.”
*Additional source: Rugby Unity Podcast
