Bok captain Du Toit warns concentration is key to seeing off All Blacks threat

South Africa must remain highly focused to counter the attacking threat of the All Blacks in their upcoming four-test series, according to Springboks captain Pieter-Steph du Toit. The teams are set to engage in a highly anticipated series, dubbed 'Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry,' marking the All Blacks' first tour of South Africa in three decades.

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We know New Zealand are going to bring it with intensity.

"We know New Zealand are going to bring it with intensity," Du Toit stated at a press conference on Friday. He emphasized the importance of performing well in the lineouts and scrum, areas where the Springboks expect the All Blacks to test them. "They're going to try and test us, finding gaps if we switch off. We know they're quite fast and have very skilful players. They're definitely going to try and exploit this and come up with good plans as well."

Du Toit, the 2019 and 2024 World Rugby Player of the Year, is captaining the team while Siya Kolisi is sidelined due to injury and was not selected for the first test. Despite the added responsibility, Du Toit feels supported by the team's structure and experienced players. "We've got a very good system and with all our coaches and players around me it makes it much easier," he said. "We've got so many senior players, people have played a lot for Springboks, a lot of test experience."

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We really believe the line outs and the scrum are going to be something where we're going to have to perform well.

He added that captaining the team is a significant honor but does not alter his personal focus. "Being able to captain the team is a huge honor but it doesn't change anything for me. I'm still focused on my game and what I have to do Saturday is play well and the rest will take care of itself." Du Toit also noted the novelty and excitement of playing a four-test series against New Zealand, a dream he aims to continue pursuing as he gets older.

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They're going to try and test us, finding gaps if we switch off. We know they're quite fast and have very skilful players. They're definitely going to try and exploit this and come up with good plans as well.

"At the moment, I'm trying to do everything I can to keep that dream alive and to still be there and add value and contribute to the team. And hopefully I can do this on Saturday," the 34-year-old concluded.

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So I would say we have to be alert at all times and don't get caught out.