David Campese’s warning to Wallabies that could see them ‘withering on the vine’ against ‘brutal’ Springboks
Australia vs South Africa Rugby Championship: Latest Updates As the Rugby Championship kicks off this weekend, Wallabies legend David Campese shares his insights for Saturday’s opening match between Australia and South Africa.
The match, set to take place at Suncorp Stadium, features Australia under Joe Schmidt and South Africa under Rassie Erasmus. Here are Campese’s top five talking points for the Rugby Championship fixture:
1. Rising Star at 10
Campese is thrilled to see young Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu starting at fly-half for the Springboks. He describes Feinberg-Mngomezulu as one of the most exciting young talents in rugby, highlighting his flair and ambition. Campese praises Rassie Erasmus for surrounding the young fly-half with experienced players like Cobus Reinach and Damian de Allende, which should aid his development. With Willie le Roux providing additional playmaking support, the Boks aim to increase pace and width in their game.
2. Evolution of the Springboks
Campese is impressed by how South Africa is evolving their style of play. He notes that while their forwards continue to be a dominant force, the introduction of Feinberg-Mngomezulu could signify a new chapter for the team, showing their willingness to adapt and innovate.
3. Wallabies’ Learning Curve
In contrast, Australia is still integrating new combinations and learning on the fly. Campese expects Jake Gordon’s kicking game to test the South African backline, particularly focusing on their aerial and height advantage. He also points out that the South African wings excel in exploiting loose balls and transitioning quickly, which Australia must manage carefully.
4. Key Players and Combinations
Campese expresses surprise that Ben Donaldson, who he believes could significantly contribute at fly-half, is not starting. He acknowledges Noah Lolesio’s progress but feels he lacks the support that Feinberg-Mngomezulu enjoys. Campese also emphasizes the importance of Australia’s back three, especially Tom Wright, in capitalizing on broken defenses and improving kick reclamation.
5. Experience Gap
Campese underscores the experience disparity between the two sides. While South Africa boasts seasoned international players, many of the Wallabies are relatively inexperienced. This gap could be a significant challenge for Australia as they look to compete against a well-established Springbok squad.
Overall, Campese’s analysis points to a fascinating clash, with the evolving dynamics of both teams set to shape the outcome of this Rugby Championship opener.
Collision Key
David Campese highlights the crucial role of physicality in the upcoming match between Australia and South Africa. Reflecting on the recent South Africa vs Ireland Test series, Campese noted the immense physicality and brutality, warning that if the Wallabies fail to match the Springboks’ collision power, they could be in trouble.
Campese expressed concern over Australia’s lineup, particularly the absence of Fraser McReight, a top-class openside flanker. He was also puzzled by the decision to play Bobby Valetini on the flank rather than at number eight, where he could be more effective with the ball. Campese also questioned how Valetini would perform in the scrum.
He acknowledged the Wallabies’ locks as strong players, with Nick Frost excelling in maul defense and lineout reading, but he believes they lack the raw physicality of South Africa’s giants, RG Snyman and Eben Etzebeth. Campese is worried that the set-piece advantage will favor South Africa and that Australia might struggle to gain momentum.
Furthermore, Campese criticized Joe Schmidt’s strategy of using short offloads in traffic, which he feels plays into the hands of the Springbok defense. With South Africa’s powerful backline, Campese anticipates potential problems for Australia in transition attacks from turnovers.
Bench Impact
Campese is also concerned about the relative strength and experience of the benches. South Africa boasts a formidable bench with three two-time world champions, a world-class hooker, and two excellent breakaway forwards, Marco van Staden and Kwagga Smith. This bench focuses on increasing pressure through pace and continuity, reflecting Erasmus’s evolving strategy.
In contrast, Campese questioned Schmidt’s decision on the scrum-half lineup, suggesting that Tate McDermott, known for his speed and attacking style, might be better suited to challenge South Africa’s forwards, especially with referee Luke Pearce’s preference for a flowing game.
Suncorp Shines
Campese concluded with praise for Suncorp Stadium, noting that it has been a lucky venue for the Wallabies, who have won their last four matches there against South Africa. The stadium is sold out, and Campese highlighted the enthusiasm in the Gold Coast area, where rugby union faces stiff competition from Rugby League and Aussie Rules.
While acknowledging that the venue has historically favored Australia, Campese emphasized the significant challenge ahead for the Wallabies. He hopes they will play an ambitious, attacking game rather than focusing on areas where they are less strong, to avoid being overwhelmed by the world champions.
