Springboks prop Ox Nche downplays revenge talk ahead of crucial Dublin clash against Ireland
Springboks prop Ox Nche emphasised team focus and ‘reality’ over external opinions ahead of their challenging match against Ireland in Dublin, where they aim to break a 13-year losing streak. Picture: Michael Sherman/IOL
Image: Michael Sherman/IOL
Springboks prop Ox Nche would not be drawn into revenge talk ahead of his side’s clash against Ireland in Dublin on Saturday.
The Springboks have not beaten Ireland in Dublin since 2012, and are expected to announce a full-strength side for the clash on Thursday.
They will also be boosted by the availability of Franco Mostert, whose red card was rescinded on Wednesday. Mostert was controversially sent off during the 12th minute of the Springboks’ clash against Ireland last week.
The last time the sides met in July 2024 in Durban, the Irish emerged one-point victors. In fact, Ireland have beaten South Africa four times in their last five clashes, including a group game in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. The last time the Springboks actually beat Ireland outside South Africa was 13 years ago in Dublin.
Springboks’ Focus on Reality Over Opinions: Nche’s Insights on Upcoming Match
“I think, well, having been in the squad, I know we as Springboks, we have our own reality, we have our own courses and we have our own goals,” Nche told IOL in an exclusive interview.
“So whatever people say, whatever people think this match will be about, that's people's opinions. But whatever the motive will be and whatever the reality will be in camp right now, that's the main thing and that's what will be the focus.”
Nche, who was ruled out of the November tour after picking up an ankle and knee injury in their first match against Japan, believed that a Springbok win over the weekend would do little in winning over the Irish fans.
“No, I don't think any Irish supporter would want the Springboks to beat Ireland.
“So I don't think it will change. I think if anything, we saw with the fans, you beat the fans at home, they dislike you even worse and they can't wait for you to come back again.”