A former Ireland rugby player has emphasized that South Africa is currently the best rugby team in the world and may retain that position for an extended period. After their historic fourth Rugby World Cup triumph, South Africa showed no signs of slowing down in 2024. They secured the Rugby Championship title and achieved an impressive record of 11 wins out of 13 matches. This success came despite significant squad rotation, with 50 players tested throughout the year as part of preparations for the next World Cup in Australia in 2027.
The Springboks’ head coach is mindful of the need to rebuild the team as many of their key players from consecutive World Cup victories approach the twilight of their careers. The coaching staff has begun integrating younger talent while retaining experienced players, creating a powerful blend of youth and expertise that has defined their 2024 campaign.
The Springboks’ consistent dominance can be attributed to their mastery of the game’s fundamentals, particularly their performance in the breakdown. Speaking on a rugby-focused podcast, the former Ireland international highlighted South Africa’s exceptional work at the ruck, noting that their accuracy and effectiveness in this area set them apart. He remarked that while other teams, including Ireland, have occasional lapses in breakdown performance, South Africa remains unwaveringly precise.
South Africa ended the year as the top-ranked team in the World Rugby standings. The former player expressed confidence that this dominance would persist into 2025 and beyond, emphasizing that the Springboks are far ahead of their competitors. He described their play as intimidatingly good, with flawless execution and unmatched ferocity, particularly at the breakdown.
When asked about the aging core of South Africa’s squad, with several key players in their 30s, the podcast’s host raised concerns about how this might affect the team during their rebuilding phase. The former player dismissed these worries, pointing to the wealth of talent emerging within the Springboks’ system. He likened it to a conveyor belt, ensuring a seamless transition as older players gradually step aside for younger stars. He noted that the team has been evolving for years and will continue to do so without sudden disruptions.
One standout moment highlighted during the discussion was the remarkable athleticism of a South African forward in a recent match against Wales. The forward’s speed and ability to keep up with the game’s pace underscored the Springboks’ extraordinary physical and tactical capabilities.
The discussion concluded with optimism about South Africa’s future, emphasizing that their structured development and wealth of talent would keep them at the forefront of international rugby for years to come.