Boks mindful of massive challenge Scotland poses

They also both hoped to make it a special occasion for Rassie Erasmus, who will break the record as the most capped Springbok head coach of all time in what will mark his 55th Test match at the helm.

The match kicks off at 17h40 and will be broadcast live on SuperSport.

Both Stick and Du Toit were full of praise for Erasmus, and spoke with great admiration of him as a coach and person.

“You can't ask for a better man than Rassie,” said Stick.

“We are very proud of what he's achieved, not just for us, but for the country. He genuinely cares about the people of South Africa, and as a team, we've been through tough times together, but he cares about everyone in the team room.

“Reaching this milestone of becoming the most capped head coach for the Springboks is very special. It's also great that his family is around to celebrate with him this week, so I'm happy for him, and hopefully we can make Saturday special.”

Du Toit, who led the Boks in Erasmus’ first Test as head coach back in 2018, echoed Stick’s sentiments.

“I’ll always remember the excitement since the day I met Rassie,” said Du Toit.

“He always comes up with a plan and gives us the opportunity to build on it, and to find something that could give us an edge. That's always been there, and it's awesome to be part of this occasion with him.”

Speaking about the challenge they expected from Scotland, who are currently ranked fifth in the world, Stick said: “They've got a very skilful backline, and a physical loose trio, who are focused on generating momentum.

“Finn Russell (Scotland flyhalf) is one of the best playmakers in the world, and their centres are excellent too. They also have a dangerous back three, and Kyle Steyn knows us well as South Africans, he understands our DNA, and he’s been playing well for them. So, it will be a tough game, and they'll try to keep the ball in play and challenge us in the wider spaces.”

With Scotland having named an experienced matchday squad for the encounter compared to a relatively inexperienced Springbok team on paper, Stick and Du Toit said it was an exciting challenge.

“First and foremost, we have belief in these players,” said Stick. “All of them have performed well for their franchises and deserve to be rewarded. They also worked really hard, especially in our conditioning camps in June, and there are youngsters who bring a different energy.

“We always want to build squad depth, so we're not a team that relies on just one group. It's a matter of believing in every player in the squad, and when the opportunity presents itself, Rassie is not shy to give players the chance. 

“The guys are excited, and I hope we can give the people of Pretoria a good show.”

Du Toit may be the most experienced player in the match-23, but he also looked forward to seeing what his team could deliver on the field.

“It doesn't put pressure on me, it actually excites me more,” said Du Toit, who will be playing in his 97th Test.

“I remember being one of the younger guys myself, with that same excitement. When you play for the Springboks at Loftus, you've got so much energy, and you want to prove a point, and a guy who wants to do that can be dangerous because he'll do anything for the team.”

Du Toit was proud to lead the Boks once again this week and said that over the years, he has gained knowledge and experience that has prepared him for this big responsibility.

“We've got a good system, and it guides us wherever we go,” said Du Toit.

“Personally, I've been here for a couple of years now, and I've learned from Siya (Kolisi – regular Springbok captain) and the other captains before me, so there's nothing extra expected of me. It’s just about doing what is expected on the field and leading by example.”