The two-Test series between the Boks and the Six Nations champs in July has the potential to deliver some of the best rugby this year.
Ireland and South Africa clash at the World Cup at Stade de France in Paris on 23 September 2023. Ireland beat Scotland on 16 March to clinch their second consecutive Six Nations title. Though their 2024 campaign was far from perfect – and included a disappointing 23-22 defeat to a rebuilding England – coach Andy Farrell may be pleased with the mental state of his charges as they turn their attention to a two-Test series against the Springboks in July.
The hype around Ireland continued to grow as they drove towards a second consecutive Grand Slam. Even after England halted that march at Twickenham in the penultimate round, there was more talk about Ireland as the world’s leading side.Whether you’re Irish or South African, you have to accept that Ireland have been the most consistent Test team for the better part of three years. And in terms of a head-to-head comparison, Ireland have won their past three matches against the Boks.
And so, for all their consistency and innovation, they still have something to prove. Come July, they will get an opportunity against the Boks in Tests staged at Loftus Versfeld and Kings Park.Farrell shouldn’t be too disappointed with the failure to secure another Grand Slam. If Ireland go on to beat the Boks, nobody will remember what transpired in the Six Nations.
Many fans and critics believe that Ireland were simply unlucky – rather than physically and mentally outplayed – in the World Cup loss to New Zealand last October. Let Ireland call themselves the best team in the world. Let people obsess over 80% win records in between World Cups, as if actual silverware at global tournaments is of less significance. In the end, will anyone care if the Boks bomb now and win in Australia in 2027?
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Perfectly scripted: World champion Boks versus Six Nations winners IrelandThe 2023 World Cup winners, the Springboks, will host the Six Nations champions of 2024, Ireland, in two thrilling Tests in July.
Read more »
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso ruled out of England's Six Nations clash with FranceImmanuel Feyi-Waboso will miss England’s Six Nations clash with France on Saturday after reporting symptoms of a concussion. The surprise victory at Twickenham revived England’s Six Nations title hopes, with Wales-born Feyi-Waboso playing a key role on his full debut.
Read more »
Warren Gatland wants Wales to embrace pressure in Six Nations clash with ItalyWarren Gatland expresses his desire for Wales to embrace the pressure as they face Italy in their final Six Nations match. A defeat would result in Wales finishing at the bottom of the table for the first time since 2003. Gatland, however, states that he loves the pressure.
Read more »
Fleck: Six Nations has been disappointingRobbie Fleck believes Ireland's Six Nations credentials will be put in context when they tackle the world champions in July.
Read more »
Italy stun Scotland to claim first Six Nations home win in 11 yearsItaly claimed their first Six Nations home win in 11 years after beating Scotland 31-29. Ireland can can now retain their title with a win over England.
Read more »
Six Nations schedule announced for 2025France will host Wales in the 2025 Six Nations opener, while Ireland kick off their campaign against England, organisers unveiled on Saturday.
Read more »