Ardie Savea relishes return for All Blacks-Springboks battle

Ardie Savea, 32, is relishing his return to South Africa as the All Blacks prepare to face the Springboks at Ellis Park on Saturday. The New Zealand captain has 109 Test caps and is ready for the opening match of the series.

Savea spent a short period at home with his family before rejoining the All Blacks. Watching the team from New Zealand made him want to return sooner, and he said he was now keen to contribute to the group’s preparations and atmosphere.

The All Blacks have had a full week to prepare after playing three tour matches in quick succession. Savea believes the extra time has helped sharpen their concentration, while the scale of the contest has also raised the intensity inside the squad.

He said defeating the Springboks in the first Test would be important because of the physical demands South Africa bring. Savea acknowledged the quality of the world champions but insisted New Zealand have the ability to match them.

Set-piece discipline and accuracy will be central to the All Blacks’ challenge. Savea expects South Africa to punish mistakes in that area, particularly through their maul, and said lapses could allow the Springboks to impose their preferred style.

South Africa will be without captain Siya Kolisi after his injury. Savea expressed his disappointment for his counterpart, with the pair having spoken earlier in the week. He described their relationship as one that allows intense competition during a match while retaining a strong connection away from the field.

Savea also highlighted the atmosphere at Ellis Park, where he said players can either be overwhelmed by the occasion or embrace it. For the All Blacks captain, the chance to face the Springbok team in that setting is a major part of the appeal.