Grewcock wary of Springbok threat

England lock Danny Grewcock has warned it is not only South Africa’s physical prowess that must be contained during this weekend’s Twickenham showdown.

The Springboks have built a fearsome reputation for their aggressive style, and England’s defence coach Phil Larder believes they provide the most demanding of all tests.

South Africa’s love for route-one rugby has come at a cost, however, because they have often been overshadowed by fellow southern-hemisphere giants Australia and New Zealand in the creativity department.

But Grewcock – who will be making his eighth appearance against the reigning Tri-Nations champions on Saturday – feels the current crop of Springboks bristles with attacking options.

“South Africa are Tri-Nations champions and undoubtedly one of the best teams in the world, especially up front, so it is going to be a hard afternoon for us,” said the Bath forward.

“They are a really big side and very tough competitors who don’t give anyone an easy day. Rugby is the number one sport for them, and you can see that in the way they play.”