Australia's pre-match performance hints at potential despite recent losses, driven by powerful forwards. The Springboks, traditionally known for strength, are evolving into a quicker, tactical side under new coaching. Their backline, featuring agile players, is set to dominate with a running game that contrasts past strategies. Head coach Rassie Erasmus's early team announcement suggests confidence and a commitment to entertaining rugby. With altitude at Ellis Park affecting stamina, South Africa aims to maximize its new gameplay, while Australia may look to adapt to this lively style by series end.
Australia might have lost the British & Irish Lions series but they were one referee's decision at the breakdown away from causing a seismic upset. That the margin was so small was thanks largely to the thundering cameos of Will Skelton, Rob Valetini, Taniela Tupou and a handful of other meaty men who provided the front-foot grunt that was absent in the first Test in Brisbane.
These are no longer the burly brutes of old but sprinters and schemers, running from deep, off-loading in the tackle, unleashing a conveyor belt of diminutive scrum-cap-wearing wingers with nitroglycerin in their boots.
Head coach Rassie Erasmus flexed his muscle by naming his team early on Monday and it carries the promise of the sort of enterprising, running footy that wins over neutrals across the Indian Ocean.
With altitude being a factor at Ellis Park the Boks' half-backs will want to stretch the game as they aim to utilize their new style of play effectively.
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