The Springboks are well aware that Australia will want to take revenge for their 33-7 drubbing in the Rugby Championship opener when the sides meet again in Perth. Springbok No 8 Elrigh Louw said that they would relish the challenge of a backlash from Australia. As Rassie Erasmus made ten changes to the matchday squad, […]
The Springboks are well aware that Australia will want to take revenge for their 33-7 drubbing in the Rugby Championship opener when the sides meet again in Perth.
Springbok No 8 Elrigh Louw said that they would relish the challenge of a backlash from Australia.
As Rassie Erasmus made ten changes to the matchday squad, Louw was one of only five players in the Springbok coach’s starting lineup from the previous Test to retain his place.
SPRINGBOKS KNOW THE KEY
The Bulls bruiser is looking forward to the match and the chance to start again, and he hopes to make the most of every opportunity to wear the green and gold jersey.
“The Wallabies will definitely come back better,” said Louw.
“They’ll sharpen up their game and we’re ready for that. For us it will be important not be caught out by their tactics and plans, so we just have to go out there and execute our game to the best of our ability.”
Getting his second consecutive start and sixth Test cap thrilled Louw.
“I certainly got a bit of confidence from last week with my first start and I know what to expect this week. I can’t really change much in the way I play, but I can go out there and give my best for the team.
“Everyone has a role to play in the team, and looking back in my career, there isn’t much of a difference between playing No 8 and flanker. As a player I just like to have my hands on the ball and to try to play my game.”
Australia make five changes for the contest.
FIGHTING FOR PLACES
With intense competition for places in the Bok No 8 position and Jasper Wiese set to return from his suspension, Louw said he understood the bigger picture in the team and that for him it was a case of doing his best when he receives a chance to play.
“We are all aligned in terms of the team plans and as coach Rassie said, he wants to build squad depth and expose some players to Top-tier rugby, so my goal this weekend is to do my best and to use this chance,” he said.
Louw was also excited about linking up with scrumhalf Morne van den Berg, who will earn his first Test start this weekend.
“We played together a little in the Test against Portugal, but we’ve trained well together this week, and that gives us confidence going into the game,” Louw commented.