Ruan Nortje has expressed excitement at the prospect of partnering with Junior Springbok captain Riley Norton, describing the 20-year-old lock as a "very special player" with tremendous potential.
Speaking from the Springboks' team hotel in Turin on Wednesday, Nortje reflected on Norton's maturity despite his age. "It's crazy to think he's only 20 years old. If I personally have to look at myself at that age, it's crazy to think how mature these players are," Nortje said. "He's definitely a great leader. I'm very happy and excited for what the future holds for him."
Nortje, who recently joined Kubota Spears after 10 seasons with the Bulls, is one of several experienced locks in a powerhouse Springbok squad selected for the European leg of the Nations Championship. Norton is among six uncapped players in the touring party.
World Cup significance looms large
Saturday's match at Allianz Stadium carries weight beyond the Nations Championship standings. Italy represent the most significant pool threat to the Springboks at next year's Rugby World Cup, and this fixture marks the final meeting between the sides before that tournament, with no Nations Championship scheduled in a World Cup year.
The Springboks remain unbeaten in the competition after defeating England, Scotland and Wales in July, claiming maximum points from all three victories. They lead the Southern Hemisphere table on points difference ahead of New Zealand, who also won all three of their fixtures.
Memories of last year's test series against Italy remain fresh for the South African squad, particularly the maul try the Azzurri scored from 20 metres out at Loftus Versfeld. That result has sharpened the Boks' focus on consistency in their dominance of opponents.
Fullback Damian Willemse acknowledged the tournament structure on Wednesday, noting the squad's awareness of the competition format and the significance of the upcoming fixtures against France and Ireland before the Finals weekend at Twickenham later this month.
For Nortje, the immediate challenge is adapting to his new environment in Japan whilst maintaining his international standards. "I've been in Japan for two weeks and just met up with the team," he said. "The biggest thing for me is to learn and grow as much as possible."
The lock conceded that Italy would present a tough assignment based on previous experiences, setting the stage for a fixture that serves both immediate tournament ambitions and longer-term World Cup preparation.