Jantjies and Wiese on the state of the Springboks

In the wake of their dominant victory over Los Pumas on Saturday evening, Springboks Elton Jantjies and Jasper Wiese spoke on the general spirit within the team which appears to be going from strength to strength. 

Jantjies was impressive at flyhalf and dictated the flow of the game in Boks’ favour. 

“It was massive for us to get the result and a bonus point in the first match,” he said to springboks.rugby. 

“Argentina are a well-coached team, and they play with a lot of emotion. 

“We knew what their plan was, and they tried to implement it throughout the match, but we did well to implement our plan and to get the result as well. 

“It was also good to see a few guys get a chance to play, and players like Joseph (Dweba, hooker) and Jaden (Hendrikse, scrumhalf) making their debuts. 

“This is a special team when it comes to preparation for a match, whether one plays or doesn’t. Everyone works together as a team.” 

Wiese once again proved himself to be a real thorn in the side of the opposition as he tirelessly bashed their defensive lines over and over for the entire match and seems to be loving his new role in the green & gold. 

“The first thing for me is that you have to put the team first and then as an individual to know your role and to do everything to the best of your ability for the team,” he said. 

“At the Springboks, you are playing for something much bigger than yourself. 

“It’s been amazing for me to experience how unbelievable the guys are, how positive they are around one another, and how we get each other ready for big days. I’ve learned to put myself behind the team and to give everything for them.” 

Jantjies also talked about the squad’s ability to focus on the task at hand. 

“It was a privilege to win such a big series against the British & Irish Lions and then to have a chance to play in the Rugby Championship,” said Jantjies. 

“We celebrated (winning against the British & Irish Lions) last week Saturday, and from Sunday it was about recovery and preparing for this match. 

“The preparation this week was great, and it showed the in standards set that everyone was switched on.” 

When asked about the Duane Vermeulen-sized boots that Wiese has been required to fill, Wiese had the following to say: 

“No-one can replace Duane,” said Wiese. 

“He has a presence about him and ever since he joined the camp he has been actively talking to the guys and guiding everyone at training. 

“It is big boots to fill, and I don’t know if I will, and I know that he will be massive when he comes back. 

“So, I don’t think anyone can fill his boots, I can only try my best.”