Why Wales vs South Africa Still Matters This Weekend
So, let’s talk about this Wales vs South Africa match that has stirred up so much noise. The game is set for Saturday in Cardiff, and even before kick-off, it has already been surrounded by debate. A lot of the chatter hasn’t been about the scoreline or tactics, but about whether the match should even be happening. And honestly, that frustration has reached the Springboks’ captain, Siya Kolisi, who hasn’t been shy about pushing back on the negativity.
This fixture sits outside World Rugby’s official Test window, which means players who play their club rugby in England and France can’t be released. And that’s where the big issue comes in: Wales are missing a huge chunk of their first-choice squad—11 starters who would normally be involved, plus even more squad players who were part of the preparations earlier in the month. In total, 13 players were pulled back to their clubs, and then Tom Rogers, the winger who scored that historic hat-trick against New Zealand, dropped out with injury. So the Welsh side taking the field on Saturday is very different from what Steve Tandy would ideally pick.
Also Read:- Airbus A320 Jets Grounded After Sun Radiation Triggers Safety Scare
- Vecna’s Shadow Looms Over Stranger Things 5
Kolisi, though, is tired of hearing that this match shouldn’t be played. He’s made it clear that improvement only happens when you face top-tier teams regularly. In his view, questioning Wales’ decision to host the Springboks isn’t fair. If you want your national side to grow, you test them against the best—even if that means doing it with a younger or less experienced group. And he’s right: Wales are giving opportunities to players who otherwise might not get this kind of exposure. Several of them will be playing their first Test of the autumn, and a few will be pulling on the jersey for the first time.
Now, South Africa aren’t at full strength either, but their depth is on another level. Their matchday squad still carries close to 900 caps, while Wales are hovering just above 300. Even the Springboks’ bench alone has more experience than the entire Welsh 23. They’re sticking with the famous 7–1 bench split—seven forwards and one back—which tells you everything about the physical battle they plan to bring. For Wales, this could feel like wave after wave of green jerseys for the full 80 minutes.
But despite all that, there’s a quiet optimism around Cardiff. Last week, even in a heavy defeat to New Zealand, Wales showed glimpses of what they can do—four tries scored, a sharper attacking mindset, and a crowd that felt alive for the first time in a while. Welsh rugby has gone through a tough stretch, no question, but small sparks of improvement have been welcomed.
Kolisi hasn’t forgotten how tough Wales can be at home either. The Springboks’ recent success in Cardiff doesn’t erase those years when they simply couldn’t win there. And he’s genuinely respectful—almost affectionate—about Wales’ resilience. He’s been in their position before. South Africa went through their own dark period, and he believes Wales will rise again if patience and belief remain.
So yes, the odds are stacked. Yes, the squads are uneven. But there’s still something meaningful about this match. For Wales, it’s a test of spirit. For South Africa, it’s a chance to cap another dominant year. And for fans, it’s one more reminder that rugby—real rugby—is about more than timing windows or perfect conditions. It’s about stepping up, even when the deck is loaded against you.
Read More:
0 Comments