Springboks push for long-overdue Dublin win

The Boks return to the Irish capital for the first time since 2022, where Andy Farrell’s well-drilled side edged them 19–16 in a bruising encounter, one of several tight clashes that have fuelled the growing rivalry between the two nations.

Kolbe says the global game has evolved, with nearly every top team placing major emphasis on accuracy in the kicking battle.

He believes that trend will be on full display on Saturday.

"Overall, I think rugby has changed a lot and kicking has become a great weapon for all teams. It helps us play our game, and the Irish themselves have been capatilisng on a lot of opportunities, because of their kicking game."

The 32-year-old winger admits the Ireland fixture has become one of the sport’s fiercest modern rivalries.

Ireland’s narrow 19-16 win in Dublin, in 2022, added to a string of close results between the sides, with Kolbe noting how clinical the hosts have been in capitalising on small moments.

"In close games, you need to make sure that you capitalise on each and every opportunity that is out there, and they've been doing that really well over the last few years. They are a team that has good structure to their game, so if you aren't up for it, they can hurt you on the day."

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South Africa’s last victory on Irish soil came in 2012, and the world champions now brace for another physically demanding test at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Kolbe, who has never won at the venue, says the Boks are preparing for a contest that will be “as physical as you can get.”

Speaking to the media, the World Cup-winning winger stressed that revenge is not a motivating factor for the team, despite the recent history between the sides.

He says the Springboks approach every Test with the same mindset: to impose themselves and to win, regardless of the opposition.

The match kicks off at 19h40 (SA time) with Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus set to announce his matchday 23 tomorrow.