The South African National Rugby team begins its Rugby World Cup campaign on Saturday against Japan, a team it is yet to face in its impressive career history.
The Springboks will be expected to make an ominous start to their campaign in order to ensure they take charge of their qualification from the tough group that also includes Samoa, Scotland and USA.
The 31 man squad had already arrived in England and preparations are well under way to ensuring they do not falter in their starting match.
Little is known of Japan’s rugby abilities but the Springboks will have to show utmost focus to collect maximum points from the game. On paper, they are the obvious favourites.
Winning the World cup has been an elusive feat for the South African charges. Since they hosted the 1995 edition, they have not managed to beat Australia or New Zealand, a record they have to turn around if they are to carry the coveted trophy back home.
South Africa is joined by Namibia as Africa’s representatives in the World Cup. Namibia enters the tournament ranked 20th in the world and are as such easily the minnows in the 20-team event.
A baptism of fire however awaits Namibia in the form of New Zealand. The All Blacks sit atop the World Rugby rankings and will most certainly brush Namibia aside come Thursday. The two are part of a group that also carries Argentina, Tonga and Georgia.
If Namibia wins their match against the world champions, they will certainly have the confidence and zeal to push forward in the competition. Their aim however may have to be cut down to frustrating the New Zealand side.
Africa will be rallying behind these two teams and hope that they bring success back home.
