As world champions South Africa and Ireland prepare to meet in the first of a two-Test series, we highlight the themes to look out for.
Ireland's intriguing Test series in South Africa was announced in December and seven months of build-up is finally nearly over.
Allister Coetzee's side, however, regrouped to win Tests in Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth, denying Ireland a historic series win. It is also worth noting that this could be this Ireland side's last chance. With the British and Irish Lions tour next year and the introduction of the Nations Championship in 2026, this could be the last traditional tour to South Africa for a while.An already intense rivalry has been deepened in recent months with several South Africa players stoking the flames while speaking to the media.
Speaking a couple of weeks ago during Ireland's only pre-travel media opportunity, attack coach Mike Catt said "let them keep talking" when asked about De Allende and Etzebeth's comments. In the past couple of months, Leinster - who are again the most strongly represented province in Farrell's squad - have lost a Champions Cup final to Toulouse in extra-time and a United Rugby Championship semi-final to the Bulls in Pretoria, the scene for Saturday's match.
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