South Africa’s Springbok scrumhalf, Faf de Klerk, emphasized that the team is preparing for their Rugby World Cup quarter-final against France based on their own game plan rather than making specific plans around the potential availability of France captain Antoine Dupont.
Dupont recently resumed training after recovering from a facial fracture sustained during a pool game against Namibia. While acknowledging Dupont’s status as the world’s best scrumhalf, De Klerk stated that the Springboks would be ready to face France with or without him.
De Klerk explained, “He’s a great player and he gives the team a lot of confidence. But it doesn’t affect us if he plays or doesn’t. We prepare to face the team, not individuals.”
Despite South Africa adopting a more attacking style of play during the tournament, De Klerk admitted that they could revert to their traditional territory-focused game plan if needed in what is expected to be a closely contested match.
“As a team, we can go back to our traditional way of doing things if needed, but we have also added additional plays to our game which we can bank on. It will go down to what is needed on the day,” De Klerk noted.
South Africa’s assistant coach, Deon Davids, recognized France as favorites despite South Africa being the world champions. He emphasized France’s formidable team, second-place world ranking, and home crowd advantage, making them a significant opponent.
Regarding the two-week break before the quarter-final match, Davids acknowledged both pros and cons. He mentioned that the break allowed players to spend time with their families and recharge after four consecutive matches, but it also raised questions about whether the week off would help or hinder their momentum heading into a crucial fixture.
