Springboks coach assistant Mzwandile Stik believes that the preparation for the greatest rugby rivalry against the All Blacks has all the hallmarks of a Hollywood blockbuster, yet he insists that the Boks team has not allowed this hype to affect the preparation process.
Given that Ellis Park stadium is completely full, and the series of four test matches generates huge interest in both South Africa and New Zealand, Stik noted that the atmosphere surrounding this competition is exactly what rugby needs.
He stated: 'If I look at the atmosphere around the team, talking about the fans, and if you listen to the New Zealanders when they talk about their team, and the South Africans when they talk about their team, I think it is a great build-up before the game.' He continued that this is likely one of the greatest rugby competitions outside of the World Cup, as the team will be able to play against the All Blacks four times in a row.
'So, yes, if you want to say it looks like a Hollywood movie, then yes, it does,' Stik added. However, he emphasized that internally, the team treats every test match the same way. In terms of preparation, they have not added any extra defensive or kicking training, striving to stick to what has helped them before.
'Yes, there is an atmosphere, but as a team, we tried to focus on the things we always focus on during the week,' Stik reported. He also expressed pleasure at the banter exchanged on social media related to this rivalry, considering it part of what makes the event special. As one of the younger coaches, he understands what is happening on social media.
'I like this atmosphere. I am one of the young coaches, so I understand what is happening on social media,' he said with a smile. He noted that the atmosphere is necessary for the sport, as people pay for tickets and entertainment. Although there has been much joking among fans for a long time, the main priority for the team remains doing everything necessary for the next day.
Stik believes that Ellis Park is the most suitable venue to start this long-standing rivalry. He stressed that there is no better arena for games between the All Blacks and South Africa. He recalled watching great matches of the Springboks and All Blacks in his youth, as well as players who inspired a generation of South Africans to love rugby, such as Joel Stransky, James Small, and Jonah Lomu.
'I was one of the lucky ones to see this on TV back then—what Joel Stransky did, and those like James Small and Jonah Lomu—may they rest in peace—made us love the game,' he recounted. He concluded that the opportunity to represent one's country is a great blessing.
One of the key issues when selecting the Boks squad is the decision on starting Siya Feinberg-Mngomezulu at winger with Mani Libbok as a substitute. Stik explained that squad decisions are never simple, especially against the All Blacks, who promise to play at a relentless pace. He added that even in other World Cup games, there were always serious discussions among coaches. They also consider the challenges that the All Blacks will bring, such as their high-tempo play and desire to keep the ball in play. 'We felt that Siya met the requirements against Argentina upon his return.'