In a resounding display of dominance, Jamie Roberts has hailed the current South African rugby team as “the best rugby team to have ever played the game.” This proclamation came after their outstanding performance in the recent Autumn Nations Series, where they executed a seven-try rout of Wales, capping an unbeaten campaign for the back-to-back world champions. Within the opening 35 minutes of the match, the Springboks scored four tries without conceding any, establishing a commanding lead from which Wales could not recover. Despite tries from Rio Dyer and James Botham for Wales, the final score reflected South Africa’s merciless victory at 45-12.
Notably, this triumph marks a significant milestone for the Springboks as it is the first clean sweep of wins during their Northern Hemisphere tour since 2013. This accomplishment sets a benchmark for future teams, with Roberts indicating that the current squad could even surpass the legendary New Zealand teams from the mid-2010s. He remarked, “I think it’s probably the best rugby team to have ever played the game,” comparing them favorably to the iconic All Blacks side from 2011-2015. Roberts emphasized the exceptional quality of players within the Springboks, their impressive depth, and the brand of rugby they are showcasing, asserting that they will remain dominant in the sport and be serious contenders in the next Rugby World Cup.
Adding to the admiration for the Springboks, fellow TNT Sports analyst Sam Warburton expressed his unwavering agreement with Roberts’ assertions, stating that Rassie Erasmus’ squad showcases no observable weaknesses. Warburton challenged the notion of finding a gap in South Africa’s strategy, stating, “I was actually thinking then, if you’re a coach hypothetically and you’re like, ‘Right, South African weakness, let’s go for it.’ I genuinely can’t think of one. What do they not do?” He noted that during the 2019 World Cup, the Springboks played a more restricted game plan, which, despite being predictable, was still highly effective. However, he highlighted their evolution in 2023 as they embraced a more expansive style of play that further added to their arsenal of strategies on the field.
The shift in South Africa’s approach has not only showcased their physical prowess but also their ability to recognize and exploit spaces on the field. Warburton noted their initial tries in the first half, which demonstrated this recognition and quick transitions, showcasing that they are much more than a straightforward powerhouse team. His closing remarks succinctly framed South Africa as potentially one of the greatest teams in rugby history.
Before the match kicked off, Warburton articulated his admiration for the Springboks, expressing that even Welsh fans would cherish memories of seeing the iconic group of back-to-back world champions live. His words brought forth a sense of nostalgia and recognition, noting that, “It’s amazing. I mean, there are going to be people in this stadium today who, in 20 years’ time, are going to be like, ‘I saw Cheslin Kolbe play live, I’ve seen Eben Etzebeth, I’ve seen Siya Kolisi.'” This statement underscores the significance of witnessing such talented athletes and the mark they are leaving on the sport.
Presenting a touch of humor, TNT Sports presenter Craig Doyle concluded the discussion on this world-class team, light-heartedly asserting that the only team capable of defeating the current Springboks would be their second squad. This quip encapsulates the prevailing sentiment surrounding South African rugby: that their strength, depth, and skills make them formidable opponents on the global stage.
As rugby enthusiasts have the opportunity to watch this talented team live, they can simultaneously look ahead to streaming the Gallagher Premiership, the 2024 Autumn Nations Series, and Premiership Women’s Rugby through TNT Sports and discovery+. The resounding consensus is that the Springboks are not just a team but an iconic force within rugby that is poised to continue its legacy for years to come.
