South Africa brace for Baltimore finale
South Africa enter the fourth and final Test against New Zealand at Baltimore’s M&T Bank Stadium with a 2-1 series lead, following a gruelling 29-24 victory in Soweto. However, that triumph exacted a heavy toll, stripping the reigning Rugby World Cup champions of flawless goalkicker Cheslin Kolbe due to a broken jaw.
The fourth test in the series lies ahead in Baltimore, a standout moment for the growth of the sport in the USA.
The physical attrition leaves head coach Rassie Erasmus managing backline reshuffles, while leaning heavily on his veteran forwards. Number eight Jasper Wiese, captain Siya Kolisi and Pieter-Steph du Toit will anchor the pack in a record-extending combination. They must maintain their dominance against an opposition missing injured captain Ardie Savea, forcing a tactical response from the tourists.
Boks ready for physical onslaught
Eighth-man Wiese expects a fierce contest on neutral American soil. Speaking to SA Rugby magazine, he predicted a desperate push from New Zealand, noting: “We know how much it means to them as well, and I think they’re going to come out guns blazing this weekend.” Embracing the brutal nature of the rivalry, he added: “I think the physicality is always the nicest part for me about it too.”
Weiss’s physicality was exemplified from his performance in the first half of the first test where he barged his way across the gain line on numerous occasions.
Managing the immense toll of a four-week tour is paramount. Wiese acknowledged the routine required to survive these clashes, telling the publication: “But take a few pain pills on a Sunday, get the body going again on the Monday, and then we rinse and repeat the week again.” With the visitors targeting specific Springbok strengths to salvage a drawn series, verifying final team line-ups will dictate which side holds the ultimate tactical edge before kickoff.
The preparations for Baltimore will be different due to the nature of travel earlier in the week going all the way to the USA.
