Dupont set to return to training
Image: X/@SaffasRugby
Springboks not worried about Dupont-sized problem, says Faf
Faf de Klerk reveals the possible return of French captain Antoine Dupont to the hosts’ team for their Rugby World Cup quarter-final on Sunday won’t change the Springboks’ approach to a match.
Dupont set to return to training
Image: X/@SaffasRugby
Dupont was injured in France’s pool game against Namibia a few weeks ago, when he fractured his cheekbone, but the French Rugby Federation said on Monday that their captain had been given the green light to return to training ahead of their showdown with the Springboks.
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The Springboks arrived in Paris on Monday afternoon in high spirits and excited about the prospect of facing France in the fourth quarter-final, which will kick off at 21h00 on Sunday evening in front of a passionate and vocal home crowd at the Stade de France.
Addressing the media on Monday afternoon, De Klerk said the Springboks’ Rugby World Cup experience, as well as playing the French in Marseille last year – when the hosts won by 30-26 – served as a good dry run for Sunday’s match.
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SPRINGBOKS NOT WORRIED ABOUT DUPONT-SIZED PROBLEM
Of Dupont’s potential return, De Klerk admitted that he is a great player whose presence will boost his team’s chances significantly, but added that it makes to difference to the Springboks whether Dupont plays or not.
“He’s a great player and he gives the team a lot of confidence. But it doesn’t affect us he if plays or doesn’t. We prepare to face the team, not individuals. That said, for me personally, it’s always good to face the world’s best.”
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With a Rugby World Cup semi-final spot up for grabs, De Klerk said the Springboks were comfortable varying their game on the day if needed.
“As a team we can go back our traditional way of doing things if needs be, but we have also added additional plays to our game which we can bank on,” said De Klerk.
“So, it will go down to what is needed on the day. As a team we are in a lucky position in that regard.”
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