The Springboks could slip as low as third in World Rugby rankings should they suffer defeat against Wales at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. Photo: Springboks website
Boks set sights on World Cup defence as 2022 Test schedule confirmed
The Boks have made it clear that their focus has shifted towards elite preparation for the defence of their World Cup title next year.
The Springboks could slip as low as third in World Rugby rankings should they suffer defeat against Wales at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. Photo: Springboks website
On Tuesday, it was confirmed that the Boks are scheduled to face Wales in three Test matches in the Incoming Series in July, before hosting the All Blacks and Argentina in the Rugby Championship in August and September.
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The Boks finished last year as the No 1 ranked side in World Rugby, but several results left coach Jacques Nienaber frustrated. He has now said there is great excitement about the season that lies ahead.
“It’s a massive honour to represent our country, and the fact that we will be facing such tough competition this season has certainly sparked excitement among the coaches and the players alike.
“We are well underway with our planning for the year, and our knowledge of these teams after facing all of them last season will be vital as we forge ahead in this regard in the next few months.
“Wales, the All Blacks and Australia tested us well last season, and Argentina have proven to be a force to be reckoned with, both at home and away, so although we are expecting a challenging season, we realise the importance of laying a solid foundation as we build up toward next year’s Rugby World Cup.”
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SA Rugby CEO Jurie Roux also highlighted the importance of a challenging 2022 Test schedule.
“It’s exciting to announce such a strong list of Springbok fixtures this season after a successful 2021 season for the team, and I have no doubt that Jacques Nienaber (Springbok coach), his management team and the players will do their best to build on those achievements this season,” said Roux.
“Pending the return of crowds to our Tests and with the COVID-19 pandemic still presenting challenges throughout the world, we understand the fluid nature of match schedules, but it is important for us that the team face quality opposition as we gear up to the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.”
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THE BOKS’ CONFIRMED SCHEDULE CAN BE FOUND BELOW:
Incoming Series fixtures (kick-off times TBC):
Saturday, 2 July: Springboks v Wales – Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Saturday, 9 July: Springboks v Wales – Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein
Saturday, 16 July: Springboks v Wales – DHL Stadium, Cape Town
Rugby Championship fixtures (kick-off times TBC):
Saturday, 6 August: Springboks v New Zealand – Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit
Saturday, 13 August: Springboks v New Zealand – Emirates Airline Park, Johannesburg
Saturday, 27 August: Springboks v Australia – venue TBC
Saturday, 3 September: Springboks v Australia – venue TBC
Saturday, 17 September: Springboks v Argentina – Vélez Sarsfield, Buenos Aires
Saturday, 24 September: Springboks v Argentina – Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban
