Wales coach Warren Gatland. Image: AAP; Video – Sky Sports
Rodney Livhalani
(The Post News)– Wales awaits the Welsh Rugby Union’s decision as they face another defeat to the mighty Springboks. Since 1937, the Principality Stadium has seen Wales go an entire calendar year without a victory in their overall test matches. The team must change their game as they will face France in the upcoming Six Nations game opener.
It was too late for Wales as they made two late changes. Nicky Smith had to replace the ill Gareth Thomas, while a calf muscle injury forced Tom Rogers to play in this last game for 2024 for Wales. The two-time World Champions, the Springboks, took only six minutes to score their first try. With the help of their captain Siya Kolisi’s massive run, Heindrikse converted for the mighty Boks.
The weekend game showed that even if the Springboks didn’t have some of their World Cup players, they still went hard to make it 26-0 against Wales, which saw them scrambling to get a try. South Africa captain Siya Kolisi told TNT Sports after the game: “We were where Wales are a couple of years ago. The only thing I can say is that just don’t stop believing.” He further said: “It’s good to see some players getting their first few caps, as it builds a strong team with experience.”
The Wales coach said he would wait for the Rugby Union’s decision, as they would not make any drastic calls just after the match. He alluded to his young players taking the game as a massive learning opportunity from their loss against the World Champions. “Hopefully, next time they will play with physicality and intensity like what the Springbok’s team brought to the game.” The match ended Wales 12-45 South Africa; the team would have to enter the 2025 Six Nations game opener with a massive loss in 2024, while the Springboks celebrate yet another massive victory for their country.
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