AUDIO: Ex-All Black backs Springboks to end Eden Park drought
The South African team is in a perfect position to record a rare win over the All Blacks at Eden Park, according to former All Blacks back Robbie Deans.
The Springboks take on the All Blacks on September 6 at Eden Park.
Although the World Cup champs have a few showdowns before that, including a two-Test series against Italy, it is a fixture that will be a main target for the Boks.
After four straight wins over the All Blacks in the past two years, including the Final of the World Cup 2023, the challenge for the Boks will be to continue that sequence in New Zealand.
When the two teams meet on September 6, not only will the Boks be out for a fifth straight win over their old foes, but they could become the first team to beat the All Blacks at Eden Park in 31 years.
*Article continues below…
When asked about the Springboks’ odds of securing a win at Eden Park, Deans quickly replied with a ‘no doubt’.
“It will be on their radar,” the 65-year-old told reporters in Cape Town.
“They are an experienced group and know how to win.
“There is a lot of footy to come before that, but it will just prepare them for that moment.
“It’s going to be a great occasion.”
*Article continues below…
The former New Zealand international added that the Springboks’ talent makes them the envy of many nations.
“They can play any way they choose, and they have developed the ability to do that, which really helps over time, because it takes the load off your group.
“Historically, they were quite one-dimensional, but good at it.
“Now they can play in many different ways. A lot more ambitious, and they’ve got some talent that other nations would give anything for.
“They have players that can unlock a game – and that makes it hard.”
One of the players who stood out for Deans is Cheslin Kolbe.
The wing was in fine form against the Barbarians, despite terrible weather conditions.
He topped the charts in carries (13) and line breaks (3), scored a try and had a hand in setting up a few, earning the player of the match award.
“I always enjoy watching Cheslin, even when I’m playing against him.
“He is just so positive, in contact and in the air.
“Just a freakish footballer.”
Turning his attention to the Barbarians, Deans said it was not easy taking on the World Champs in their backyard.
“It’s never pleasant conceding that many points,” he admitted.
“But you’re playing the World Champs at home. The conditions help them didn’t help us to settle. Inaccurate in the early stages, could not get enough ball and could not create any pressure.
“It is certainly great stuff for their campaign.”
