Springboks refuse to underestimate Wallabies after Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry

South Africa face Australia in a one-off Test at Optus Stadium in Perth on Sunday, with kick-off at 11.45am South African time. 

The Boks arrive in Perth after beating the All Blacks 43-28 in Baltimore to secure a 3-1 series victory, but Vermeulen says the changes to the team do not mean there will be any drop in intensity against an improving Australian side.

"Australia are a team on the rise and they are playing really well so we have to be ready for them. We've had two weeks of proper prep with the guys and I think it was enough time for each player to understand his role in this game."

READ: Tose and Solontsi to share captaincy as Springbok Women reshuffle for Italy

The two-time Rugby World Cup winner believes Australia has benefited from being able to study the Springboks and All Blacks throughout the four-Test series. Vermeulen says that exposure would have given the Wallabies a clearer understanding of the Boks’ strengths and approach heading into the Perth encounter. He has also dismissed suggestions that Rassie Erasmus’ 13 changes to the starting XV represents a lack of respect for Australia, with only Eben Etzebeth and Ethan Hooker retained from the side that started the 43-28 win over New Zealand.

"If the Wallabies come with a different game plan and they surprise you in one or two trick plays then well done to them. They will be up for it but so will we."

Vermeulen has also highlighted Jasper Wiese’s development as he prepares to reach a significant milestone in Perth. The No.8 is set to earn his 50th Springbok cap when he comes off the replacements bench, adding another milestone to his international career. 

As for young prop Zachary Porthen, he says the Springboks remain fully motivated despite the demanding schedule that has followed their historic series against New Zealand. The 20-year-old is set to start against Australia in Perth, forming part of a new-look front row alongside Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Johan Grobbelaar. Porthen says the significance of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series has not distracted the squad from the challenge presented by the Wallabies.