The Springboks will go into the clash against England on Saturday determined to end an eight-year drought at Twickenham.

The Boks’ last triumph at England’s headquarters came in 2014 when they staved off a spirited second-half comeback by the hosts to triumph 31-28.

MORE: Pick your Bok team vs England!

There have been several close calls for the world champions in recent years. A narrow 12-11 loss suffered in 2018 when Owen Farrell fist-pumped after referee Angus Gardner failed to penalise him for a clear headshot on Andre Esterhuizen that should have resulted in the Boks having a shot at goal to win the game.

Last year, Marcus Smith broke Springbok hearts with a last-minute penalty to clinch a 27-26 win for England. Together with a lacklustre defeat in 2016 (37-21) under Allister Coetzee, this means the Boks will feel they have much to prove on Saturday.

Eight years is a long time between drinks at Twickenham and you can be sure Siya Kolisi’s men will empty the tank at the hallowed turf to end the drought.

ITOJE: South Africa haven’t changed!

Eben Etzebeth and Willie le Roux are two survivors of the matchday squad that last beat England in England, while the likes of Cobus Reinach, Duane Vermeulen and Handre Pollard were also present but are unable for selection.

Confidence in the Boks has been somewhat restored after a thoroughly convincing performance against Italy in Genoa, while England will be counting the cost of a gruelling Test against the All Blacks that ended without a victor.

MORE: Kolisi racing off to France?

Photo: Adrian DENNIS / AFP