Siya Kolisi and assistant coach Mzwandile Stick have issued a clear-eyed warning ahead of Saturday's Rugby Championship clash against Argentina at Estadio José Amalfitani, with both men emphasising the physical and mental demands of facing the Pumas on home soil.
The match marks Kolisi's first Test of the year, with Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Morne van den Berg also returning from injury. Kickoff is at 21h10 SA time, live on SuperSport.
"I'm very excited – it's been tough watching from the sideline, but there's a couple of us getting an opportunity now," said Kolisi. "It's been so good to see the depth in this team, with guys who have taken over and carried on the momentum. It's a tough place to come and play, but that's exactly what we need as a group."
Kolisi pointed to Argentina's narrow margins in their recent matches as a signal of the contest ahead. "Their last two games have been very close, and they could have gone either way. There are some good new players getting an opportunity in their team too, and we know what that feels like. The crowd plays a big role as well — the people here are very passionate."
Stick identified physicality and intent as the key variables. "The thing about Argentina at home is that if you don't turn up physically and mentally, you'll bring their crowd into the game. But if you turn up with the right intent, you'll have a better chance of controlling the game. The stands will be vibrating, and it's going to be a good show."
On the returning players, Stick said: "Those are guys who have worked very hard with the squad back in Johannesburg through all the camps we've had. They've waited for their chance, and now they've got it."