Smith: All Blacks ready for Springbok “battle”

Following the Springboks’ 38-12 win over the Wallabies in Brisbane, the All Blacks are preparing themselves for a big encounter when the world number 1 and 2 meet in Auckland on Saturday, September 14.

“It’s a big occasion, and considering how well the Boks have been playing of late, well, it adds an extra edge to this game,” said All Blacks outside centre Conrad Smith, speaking with SA Rugby Mag. “It’s the biggest challenge for us since the World Cup. It’s something I’m very excited about.”

“There’s always respect for an opponent, but I can tell you that it doesn’t take much for you to get up for a game against the Boks. It’s the biggest challenge to play them in South Africa, but it’s also a massive thing to play them at home. You can’t ask for much more,” added the 31-year old.

Smith emphasised the physicality of the Bok squad, but also highlighted the ball-playing prowess shown by the South Africans.

“They’re always physical, but when you see them playing expansively and moving the ball around, then you know you’re in for a real battle,” said Smith.

The game should produce a magical atmosphere in Auckland for the All Blacks, bringing back memories of the World Cup win.

“It has special significance given that we won the World Cup there in 2011. We also get good numbers there in terms of support.”

“You try not to think about these things in terms of statistics, but more about where you enjoy playing. It is certainly one of those places.”

Smith is expected to link up with Ma’a Nonu in the midfield, after the dreadlocked star was rested after an ankle injury, which gave Blues centre Francis Saili his first cap against Argentina last weekend.