Jesse Kriel says Saturday’s clash with Japan will be both personal and pivotal as the Springboks open their northern-hemisphere tour at Wembley.
Kriel, who has played his club rugby for the Yokohama Canon Eagles since 2020, is eager to come up against several familiar faces in what he called “a special occasion”.
“I think it’s very exciting. I’ve been over in Japan for going on seven years now,” he said. “It’ll be good to play against some teammates there, but also a lot of familiar faces. It’s nice to do it in a Springbok jersey at the highest level.”
The 31-year-old believes his insight into Japan’s domestic style will be valuable as the Boks prepare for a side renowned for pace and precision.
“We know what guys’ tendencies are and how they play the game,” Kriel explained. “Japanese teams wants to play at a very high tempo and a high speed. It’ll be important for us to slow their ball down and not give them what they want and get quick ball at the ruck.
“There’s going to be a massive battle in the air and at the breakdown. Those two points will really decide this game.”
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Kriel also highlighted the significance of starting the five-match tour with intent.
“It’s everything for us. We’ve spoken about it quite a bit this week, it’s a very important game to get our campaign off to a good start. We haven’t looked any further than this game, and with the team selection it shows that we’re serious.”
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Saturday marks the Springboks’ first meeting with Japan since their 26-3 World Cup quarter-final win in 2019. For Kriel, it’s a return to familiar territory and a chance to measure South Africa’s rhythm early in a demanding tour schedule that includes France, Ireland, Italy, and Wales.
“We’re excited to be back,” he said. “It’s a great stadium, a big atmosphere and we’re ready to get going.”
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Photo: Phil Walter/Getty Images
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