"They will be dangerous now." - Frans Malherbe

Springbok tighthead Frans Malherbe is quietly counting down the hours to what he expects will be a titanic clash in Nelspruit as the Boks lock horns with the All Blacks for the first Test. 

The wily scrummager is especially looking forward to the contest at set-piece where the teams have always enjoyed an abrasive rivalry.  

 “The All Blacks always have a good scrum, and we will be in big trouble if we underestimate them,” Malherbe said. “They are always a formidable side and after losing two Tests against Ireland, they will be desperate to bounce back. 

"They will be very dangerous now. 

“That said, our focus is on our game and to ensure that we constantly improve in the execution of our game plan." 

Springbok forwards coach Deon Davids added: 

“We have a lot of respect for the way New Zealand approaches the set pieces, and their coach has made it clear that the scrums and mauls are going to be important for them, so we also need to make sure that improve in those areas. 

“Matches between New Zealand and South Africa are always among the most hotly contested games, so we have to ensure that we perform to the best of our ability.”