Erasmus buoyed by Springboks’ Auckland training camp

South Africa director of rugby Rassie Erasmus believes his team will benefit significantly from their extra time in New Zealand following last week’s Rugby Championship draw against the All Blacks.

After rescuing a 16-16 tie in Wellington on Saturday to retain top spot in the table, the Springboks headed to Auckland for a week-long training camp.

The squad will now travel to Argentina in two groups, on Friday and Sunday, ahead of their final fixture against the Pumas next weekend.

“We chose to stay behind in Auckland mainly for two reasons,” Erasmus told reporters.

“Firstly, to cut down on the amount of travelling time between New Zealand, South Africa and Argentina. And secondly, we had some good team-building exercises, while we used the time together to fit in some extra training time with the squad.

“We have grown into a very tight unit, so looking back at the past week I think we ticked both those boxes.”

And that’s the wrap in Auckland.
Thanks @Ponsonbyrugby for hosting the #Springboks this week. #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/XruWAiWGLg

— Springboks (@Springboks) August 2, 2019

South Africa lead New Zealand by a point heading into the final round of Rugby Championship matches next Saturday.

The Springboks’ contest with Argentina in Salta will take place after Australia and the All Blacks have met in Perth, meaning Erasmus’ side will know exactly what they need to do to lift the trophy.

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