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Rugby World Cup 2015: Pool B profile – South Africa
The Springboks finished bottom of the Rugby Championship and will be determined to avoid another quater-final exit
Having won the Rugby World Cup for a second time in 2007, it was anticipated that South Africa would go on to challenge again when they came to defend their title in 2011, not be eliminated at the quarter-final stage by Australia.
So now the Springboks return and what can we expect? Judging by the results of the 2015 Rugby Championship, South Africa under coach Heyneke Meyer will do well to reach the final. They finished bottom of the tournament for the first time ever, a humiliation made all the greater by their home defeat to Argentina.
Star man: Bryan Habana
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Behind the vastly experienced skipper Jean de Villiers and legendary lock Victor Matfield, both of who have struggled with injuries, Habana holds the key to the Springboks' attacks. One of the fastest wings to take to a rugby field, he has clocked up 59 international tries in his 110 caps for South Africa.
One to watch: Damian de Allende
Just 23, Damian de Allende has won seven caps for the Springboks but shown with his powerful running that the centre is the natural successor to Jean de Villiers. Strong in defence and capable of punching holes through the toughest of opposition defences, De Allende will be a fixture for South Africa for years to come.
Coach: Heyneke Meyer
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Hugely experienced in club rugby both in South Africa with the Vodacom Blue Bulls and in England at Leicester Tigers, Meyer took the reins at the Springboks in January 2012 when he succeeded Peter de Villiers. His ethos is simple: “If I can coach a team that makes South Africa proud,” he says, “I'll be a happy man.” He could have a job on his hands after a grim 2015 for the Springboks.
