Wales forwards coach Danny Wilson has acknowledged the formidable challenge awaiting his side when they face the Springboks in Durban on Saturday, warning that the world champions can hurt opponents very, very quickly.
The visitors are determined to improve on the 73-0 defeat they suffered at Millennium Stadium last November, a result Wilson described as having multiple contributing factors whilst acknowledging it was a very impressive performance by the Springboks. Wales went down 35-21 to Argentina in San Juan in their second-round Nations Championship contest last weekend, a result that has left the squad disappointed and determined to raise their game.
Wilson highlighted the depth and quality of the Springbok squad, noting how they have made changes across their three Nations Championship fixtures against England, Scotland and now Wales whilst maintaining their strength. The Springboks head into the Kings Park clash on a 10-match winning streak and sitting comfortably at number one in the world rankings, whilst Wales hover outside the top 10 at number 11.
The Welsh forwards coach did point to some encouragement, referencing Wales's famous 13-12 triumph over the Springboks in Bloemfontein in 2022. Wilson said that victory has been mentioned and discussed, adding that the confidence drawn from those types of performances and what has happened before are definitely in their minds as well. Wales are also looking to build squad depth ahead of next year's Rugby World Cup, having given opportunities to several players in recent fixtures.