The Springboks have once again proved that they are a dominant force in international rugby, ending their year-end United Kingdom tour on a high note with a resounding 45-12 victory over Wales in Cardiff.
Under the leadership of head coach Rassie Erasmus, this triumph not only marked the completion of their 2024 season but also ensured that South Africa finished their November Tests unbeaten for the first time since 2013, showcasing both the skill and resilience of the world champions.
The Springbok trophy cabinet in 2024 🏆🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/0MlXgFADKQ
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) November 24, 2024
The Boks ran in an impressive seven tries, condemning the Welsh side to their 12th defeat of the season. However, the home team displayed commendable spirit, continually challenging their visitors throughout the match and refusing to yield easily. Despite their clear dominance in the scoreboard, South Africa was left reflecting on opportunities missed, attributed in part to the untested combinations in key positions.
Post-match, Erasmus expressed satisfaction not only with the victory but also with the overall performance of the team throughout the year.
“We are satisfied with the scoreboard,” he noted.
“It was a dominant performance by us and with us making so many changes, you would lack the final finishing touches.”
“But also satisfied with the year in total. It was a dominant performance by us and with us making so many changes, you would lack the final finishing touches. The effort the guys put out there, we are always happy with it.
“Wales are a tough bunch and they could have laid down when we had built up a good lead, especially given how hard we were going at them, but they fought and hung in there and scored again at the end,” he added.
Credit was given to the players for their adaptability amid the frequent changes necessitated by the rotating squad. Erasmus praised their willingness to embrace the challenges posed by the ever-evolving team dynamics, while acknowledging Wales's determination to push back.
Rassie Erasmus gave all the credit to the players as the #Springboks finished their UK tour with a clean sweep of victories 👏#ForeverGreenForeverGold #WALvRSA
— Springboks (@Springboks) November 23, 2024
This resounding victory capped a remarkable 2024 season for the Springboks, which followed their triumph at last year’s Rugby World Cup in France. With 11 wins from 13 Tests, the findings underline an extraordinary depth of talent that Erasmus has cultivated, utilising more than 50 players in the year alone.
Erasmus candidly acknowledged the challenge of integrating so many individuals into his plans, particularly with the older, established players in mind.
“I had all these plans and it was up to them to accept we are not 25 players but a group of 50-plus. The numbers might be a wow factor, but more importantly for us was how those players slotted in and how we didn't lose a lot of momentum.”
He emphasised the vital role of team cohesion in maintaining rhythm during matches, attributing part of the success to captains like Siya Kolisi for their leadership amid the changes.
Kolisi himself commented on the profound pride he felt in the group’s achievements this season.
“The week was tough because we now have to wait seven months for a Test and must fight at our unions to try and make the team again.”
“The week was tough because we now have to wait seven months for a Test and must fight at our unions to try and make the team again. It was our last match (of the season), but every time we play for the Springboks it’s special,” he reflected.
“This is a special group of players and environment. Every guy who comes in doesn’t want to leave. We enjoy it as much as we can while learning and growing.”