Barnes backs Boks for World Cup

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Former England flyhalf Stuart Barnes says the Springboks should be considered among the top three contenders to win the 2023 World Cup in France.

The Springboks concluded their 2022 campaign with a first victory over England at Twickenham in eight years.

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That result saw the world champions end the year with eight wins in 13 Test matches, for a ratio of 62%. Only France and Ireland had better win rates in 2022, while the All Blacks were on par with the Boks after being held to a draw by England.

While the Springboks have been inconsistent under Jacques Nienaber and have experienced off-field turmoil, player-turned-pundit Stuart Barnes still backed them to defend their world title next year.

“I’d say France, SA, Ireland in that order,” said Barnes on social media.

“NZ could beat any of them on their day, but will not be stable enough to win a quarter, semi and a final.”

Photo: Twitter: @Springboks

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Dylan Jack