Springbok prop Thomas du Toit billed the scrum duel between South Africa and Argentina as a “clash of the Titans” and said it would be a battle of attrition until the final whistle.
The two teams meet in Saturday’s penultimate round of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship – a Test that could either see the Boks clinch the title or set up a decider next week in Nelspruit.
The Boks have already secured the Freedom Cup against New Zealand and Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate against Australia, while victory in Santiago del Estero will mark the first time in the competition’s history that the Boks win six consecutive matches.
Du Toit, however, warned that it would take a colossal effort from the team to extend their unbeaten run this season to five matches when the teams face off at Estadio Unico Madre Ciudades for the first time.
“The scrums are going to be a proper clash of the Titans,” said Du Toit. “Argentina pride themselves on their scrum, so it’s going to be a proper battle.”
“Daan (Human, Springbok scrum coach) has good systems and he makes it tough for us during the week, which has prepared us well for the match, but we know it’s going to be a tough battle for the full 80 minutes.”
Commenting on the competition for places in the squad, Du Toit said: “We have unbelievable front rowers, and you always have to give your best and keep up with the pace to stay in the team.”
Similarly to many other players in the squad, the 2019 Rugby World Cup-winner was delighted about the trust placed in him by Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus and Human to attempt to wrap up the championship this weekend.
“The trust placed in us is a reality now more than ever,” said Du Toit, who has started on both sides of the scrum for the Boks.
“As players we feel the faith placed in us as the coaches continue to build the squad, but that also comes with a big responsibility, and we all know that, and believe in what is being built in the team.”
Du Toit was excited about his new career path at English club Bath, where he has made a strong statement, saying: “Bath is great for me and my family and I’m excited to be at the club. It’s also an honour and massive privilege for me to be here and part of this (Springbok) team again after everything that has happened.
“Like many other players, my journey has had its highs and lows, and the Sharks was a great foundation going into the next phase of my career at Bath. Every move has been underpinned by the fact that I want to be at the Springboks.”
The Boks made the short trip from Buenos Aires to Santigo del Estero on Wednesday evening and will enjoy a break on Thursday before wrapping up their preparations for the match on Friday at the captain’s run.
Source: SA Rugby
