Nick Mallett says he wholeheartedly believes the Springboks will defend their World Cup title, but expects an “incredibly intense” tournament in France.
Mallett was speaking to Netwerk24 following the launch of his new book: Insights into the Rugby World Cup.
The former Bok coach has backed South Africa to claim back-to-back World Cup titles, given the experience and history of success in the squad.
“They [the Springboks] will have to beat Ireland, Scotland, New Zealand and Australia to get there,” said Mallett.
“France and Ireland may be people’s favorites this time, but under the leadership of Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber there is a lot that counts in the Springboks’ favour.
“Most of the squad have already excelled on the game’s biggest and most glorious stages – Japan in 2019 [when they won the World Cup] and when they won the Test series against the British and Irish Lions in 2021.”
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Mallett said that the Springboks will likely face France in the final, with the hosts on a dream run, winning the Six Nations in 2022.
“There is a lot of momentum behind them. They have won 18 of the last 19 Tests they have played – this includes against South Africa and New Zealand. So, playing against them in France with their fans who are very loud is going to be a big challenge for the Springboks.”
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