Player Focus: South Africa v Ireland

It is the series decider in Durban after the Springboks took a seven point win away from Loftus Versfeld. 

Here are out two players to watch from the Durban test.

Faf de Klerk:

De Klerk had a mediocre game in Pretoria as he was unable to get the ball out quick enough due to the messy rucks. He did try to gain an advantage by fumbling around players on the ground but he will be looking for cleaner breakdowns and a longer placement from his colleagues.

He and Pollard are arguably the most important players if the Springboks are going to unleash their new Tony Brown attack.

Jor McCarthy:

McCarthy was not the player he has been in the last few test matches for Ireland and Leinster. He had a relatively quiet game by his standards. He will need to hit his straps early to impose himself on what is likely to be a scrappy game and Eben Etzebeth. He has the support of Ryan and Beirne in the pack to start. 

Love a good lineout defence. this is excellent by McCarthy & Beirne pic.twitter.com/WDQ1pnSin7

— Brett Igoe (@brettruganalyst) February 4, 2024