Springboks legend Bismarck du Plessis shared stories about his rise from a small town in the Free State until the moment he was set to face the Haka before the multi-match tour by the All Blacks in South Africa.
Dreams versus reality
Despite the great success in world rugby that he achieved, Bismarck du Plessis admitted that his ambitions were much more modest in childhood. He noted that he never imagined playing for the Springboks, as he is originally from a small rural settlement in the Free State.
He made these remarks on Tuesday at the FNB stadium, where it was officially announced that Castle Double Malt would become the title partner of the new commercial brand 'Greatest Rivalry in Rugby' for historical matchups between the Springboks and the All Blacks.
Memories of early childhood
Du Plessis recounted that watching Springboks matches formed some of the brightest memories of his childhood. He recalled how in Bethlehem, they always slept in his father's room as children because the television was there. They had to wake up early, around four or five in the morning, to watch the All Blacks play against the Springboks.
Upcoming tour and rivalry
The modern embodiment of this legendary rivalry is preparing for a new phase. The Kiwis team will spend a whole month in the country, participating in an extensive seven-match series. The tour itinerary includes four matches against local United Rugby Championship (URC) franchises: Stormers, Sharks, Bulls, and Lions. Additionally, a highly anticipated three-match Test series against the world champions, the Springboks, is planned.
After completing the stage in South Africa, both teams will meet again on neutral ground in Baltimore, Maryland, as part of a global initiative to develop the game in the United States.
