Springboks bank on youth for Irish tests

SPRINGBOK coach Jake White named three new caps in a young squad to take on Ireland at Vodacom Park in the first Test on Saturday.

“Ireland must be favourites. They beat England earlier this year and have a more settled combination and some truly world class stars,” White said.

In naming his match 22 for his debut Test in charge, White handed new caps to prop Eddie Andrews, scrum-half Fourie du Preez and wing Henno Mentz.

“The backline is a little inexperienced but they all have Super 12 experience and have therefore played against some of the best in the world. I have full faith in this team,” White added.

A major concern for the new coach is centre De Wet Barry’s ankle injury, which could rule out one of his most experienced players.

“De Wet has twisted his ankle and we are having it checked. We haven’t heard yet,” said White.

Barry has been in sublime form this season and together with partner Marius Joubert, was expected to combat the lethal Irish pair of Gordon D’Arcy and Brian O’Driscoll.

O’Driscoll has long been regarded as one of the finest centres in the world and along with D’Arcy, the Six Nations Player of the Year, has created havoc for opposition defences.

Since announcing his squad at the beginning of last month, White has seen no less than five players fall victim to various ailments, while a sixth, Percy Montgomery is also ruled out of the first Test.

Montgomery arrived at the camp with a broken hand.

Du Preez voiced his confidence in the team, hinting at an expansive game plan strategy against the Irish.

“My boot is going to be vital in keeping the ball in front of the forwards, but we are definitely going to use the backs.”

“The guys are confident and it’s been a great plus factor that we have been together for such a long time.”

Springbok captain John Smit stressed yesterday there would be no boycott of the Ireland Test over a contract dispute between the country’s rugby football union (SARFU) and the association representing players (SARPA).

“As far as the team is concerned there is no threat of a strike or boycott,” said Smit, reading from a statement that was signed by manager Arthob Petersen, White and the skipper.

“We intend to represent South Africa on Saturday with pride and dignity in the first Test match against Ireland at Vodacom Park,” he said.

The Springboks play the second test against Ireland in Cape Town on June 19 ahead of the Tri-Nations in July.