Rugby News

Rugby World Cup: Rassie Erasmus expects England to have ‘some beef’ with South Africa in semi-final | Rugby Union News | Sky Sports

October 18, 2023

South Africa defeated England in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final in Yokohama; Steve Borthwick’s England are the only undefeated side remaining in the competition having won all four group games before beating Fiji in last weekend’s quarter-final

Last Updated: 18/10/23 8:56am

South Africa director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has a go at predicting England's squad for their World Cup semi-final, while Handre Polland says he is expecting 'beef' when the sides clash

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

South Africa director of rugby Rassie Erasmus has a go at predicting England’s squad for their World Cup semi-final, while Handre Polland says he is expecting ‘beef’ when the sides clash

Rassie Erasmus expects semi-final opponents England to have “some beef” with South Africa due to their defeat in the last World Cup final.

Springboks director of rugby Erasmus began the mind games ahead of Saturday’s Paris showdown by listing Steve Borthwick’s potential team selection.

England are out for revenge after being beaten 32-12 by Erasmus’ side in the 2019 final in Japan when they were coached by Eddie Jones.

Steve Borthwick: I’m sure England will be written off again
Men’s Rugby World Cup 2023: Full fixtures and results
Rejuvenated New Zealand out to recover aura of the All Blacks

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Despite having reached the Rugby World Cup semi-finals, England attack coach Richard Wigglesworth believes Owen Farrell has received unfair criticism for his performances at the tournament.

Reigning champions South Africa are overwhelming favourites for victory and expected to face New Zealand, who take on Argentina in the other last-four fixture, in the final.

“To talk about the All Blacks would be disrespectful to England because they’re a massive, massive speed bump for us to get over,” said Erasmus.

Rassie Erasmus expects England to have 'some beef' with South Africa ahead of their World Cup semi-final

“More so a pothole than a speed bump because I was just looking at the possible teams I think can play. They have so many experienced players that played against us last time.

“I think because they’ve played us in the World Cup final they will have some beef with us. I think they will be very physical, they will definitely step it up at all set phases.”

Erasmus moved into his current role after guiding his country to glory at the expense of England four years ago in Yokohama, with Jacques Nienaber replacing him as head coach.

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

Former England international Luther Burrell believes England face a ‘monumental’ challenge to overcome South Africa in their World Cup semi-final

The 50-year-old went into specific statistical detail of the two teams he believes will take to the field at the Stade de France. He then, when prompted, listed England’s possible matchday 23.

“I think we have averaged 200 minutes per player, they 260,” said Erasmus. “I think the average caps of our team will be about 54, they’ll be about 59. I think the average age of our team is 30, the average age of their team about 29. And then the average weight is 104 (kilograms) and 105.

“England are unbeaten, they stuck to their guns since he (Borthwick) has been appointed, and they kept believing in what they’re doing and it’s paying off.