Springbok Captain John Smit says that this week’s match against England will define the Boks tour, and indeed their year…it will also be the last Test the Boks play until the first Test against the Lions in June.
“We have been inconsistent this season, but to go undefeated on this tour, and in doing so play well against England, would mean a lot to us,” says Smit.
“England at Twickenham always provides a special challenge to us, and we look forward to seeing what Australia got right against them.”
Smit did a marvellous job in setting the example for the listless Boks against the Scots. He had a super game, making big tackles and taking the ball up powerfully, and in renewing his lineout duties, he hit his jumpers on every single occasion, having had to take over from hamstrung Bismarck du Plessis as early as the fifth minute.
Bismarck du Plessis has been given until this afternoon to show that he has a chance of recovering by Saturday. He will almost certainly be ruled out and then the call will go out to brother Jannie to get on the first plane to London.
The other casualty from Murrayfield, Gurthro Steenkamp, had a scan on the ankle he turned over and there is no serious damage.
You can read more about the South African view on the tour and upcoming England game on the IOL Sport website.