England lock: Fair play to Boks

England’s George Kruis says the Springboks reaped the benefits of a clear-cut game plan in last year’s World Cup final, writes CRAIG LEWIS.

In an exclusive wide-ranging chat with SARugbymag.co.za, Kruis provided insight into fourfivecbd, a company he co-founded with former Saracens teammate Dominic Day as they sought to find an effective natural supplement to aid their active lifestyles.

Kruis, who featured off the bench in the World Cup final last year, also reflected on the ups and downs of the showpiece event in Japan.

‘It was an unbelievable tournament and unbelievable country There were plenty of highs and lows, but that’s what makes a great competition. On a wider scale, for South Africa to win, it was great for them the way they did it and how it’s touched the country, which shows what sport can do.

‘Fair play to them, they obviously played very well in the final, and had a nice, simple, clear game plan that they just stuck to. For us, it was a tough one to take in the final, but the journey is one I’ll cherish.’

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Kruis, who has three British & Irish Lions caps to his name, also touched on that experience as the touring team again prepares for a visit to South Africa in 2021.

‘It’s a different one, it’s not like an international or club set up. There’s a massively serious side to it, but there’s a good bit that’s also a bit looser. It does represent a proper old school touring squad, with everyone getting some game time, and there is some time to let your hair down.

‘I think it will be an unbelievable tournament. I was there with a bunch of mates the last time the Lions toured South Africa and it was an incredible experience. South Africa are obviously world champs again, and that will put up a pretty big test.’

READ: ‘We’ve thrown away textbook for Lions tour’

Photo: Getty Images

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