Guthro counts on Madiba magic

2005-07-21 13:32

Johannesburg - Once again the war of words waged by Jake White and Eddie Jones has been a familiar theme in the build-up to Saturday's Mandela Challenge Plate Test between South Africa and Australia at Ellis Park.

But it is action the Springboks need, not words, if they are to erase the hurtful memories of the mauling they received at the hands of a pumped-up Wallabies outfit in Sydney a fortnight ago.

First scrum

After all the hype, the first scrum of the match is likely to count more than any mud-slinging by the respective coaches during the past week and will certainly not be a place for the faint-hearted.

Strongman Gurthro Steenkamp, in for veteran Os du Randt at loosehead prop, is relishing the chance to restore some of the Boks' battered pride and more importantly convert White's strong words into compelling action.

"The first scrum is crucial," stated Steenkamp. "It definitely sets the tone for the rest of the game and we have a lot to prove out there."

"They are a good pack, but are more about technique. We are traditional; it's more about power."

The pinnacle

For Steenkamp, Saturday's match represents the pinnacle of his fledgling international career - he will earn his fifth Test cap - not just because the series is poised on a knife edge but also because Nelson Mandela himself will be present in the stands.

"That makes a huge difference. Madiba is an inspiration to us all. The mere fact that he is there is a big motivation for all the guys.

"He is an inspiration to a lot of people around the world - he has gone through so much in his life and hopefully we can produce a performance to honour him," said Steenkamp.

The "Madiba Magic" factor is certainly one the Boks can use to their advantage, but Jones has already muscled in on the act saying the visitors can also feed off the former President's inspirational character.

"He signifies a lot of great qualities and some of these qualities we are going to need on Saturday against the Springboks at Ellis Park, so we are looking forward to it," Jones said.

"The guys are excited by the prospect of playing for the Mandela Challenge Plate and the opportunity to meet Nelson Mandela. It's a unique opportunity for us," Jones continued.

The fact that a record nine players of colour have been included in the match 22 - with six in the starting line-up - may provide some measure of pleasure for the man that has worked so hard to gain equality in this country.

And a victory by this team on Saturday will provide the cherry on top for Madiba's 87th birthday celebrations.

- SAPA