More a curse than a blessing

Jean de Villiers’s World Cup exit has left the Springboks light on leadership as well as experienced midfield options, writes JON CARDINELLI.

Time running out for Alberts

Willem Alberts may well head back to South Africa if he fails to come through a fitness test later this week, reports JON CARDINELLI in Newcastle.

Matfield: Meyer took control

Victor Matfield has credited coach Heyneke Meyer for the Springboks’ change in World Cup fortunes, reports JON CARDINELLI in Birmingham.

Tour Tales: Birmingham (Week 2)

JON CARDINELLI reflects on a week of sinister seagulls, floating markets and kortbroek tributes.

Boks smash Samoa

JP Pietersen scored a hat-trick as the Springboks beat Samoa 46-6 on Saturday. JON CARDINELLI reports from Villa Park in Birmingham.

Midfield concern for Boks

Captain Jean de Villiers is the biggest injury concern for the Springboks following the brutal clash against Samoa, reports JON CARDINELLI in Birmingham.

Jean: Meyer is boss

Jean de Villiers maintains that he and Heyneke Meyer are on the same page regarding the Springbok game plan, reports JON CARDINELLI in Birmingham.

Duane key to Boklash

Duane Vermeulen needs to deliver from the outset if the Springboks are to record a morale-boosting victory against Samoa, writes JON CARDINELLI in Birmingham.

Meyer: Pollard holds the key

Handré Pollard has to prove his worth as a tactical kicker and decision-maker against Samoa on Saturday, reports JON CARDINELLI in Birmingham.

‘Boks will stick to script’

Heyneke Meyer is confident that his charges will employ a more direct and tactical approach when they play Samoa, reports JON CARDINELLI in Birmingham.