Damian Willemse wary of Ruben Love threat before All Blacks Test

Damian Willemse has warned that Ruben Love can challenge South Africa in every area when the Springboks meet New Zealand at Ellis Park on Saturday. The Springbok fullback views the All Blacks flyhalf as a complete attacking threat with the ability to kick, pass and beat defenders.

Willemse’s assessment reflects the attention South Africa have given Love’s progress. The Springboks’ coaching and analysis staff have been monitoring the playmaker, who enters the Test after an outstanding Super Rugby season.

Love’s understanding with Hurricanes scrum-half Cam Roigard adds another dimension to his threat. The pair have worked together at provincial level, and Willemse believes that familiarity can help Love perform with confidence in the international game.

The Springbok fullback also pointed to Love’s precision from the tee and his calmness when under pressure. In Willemse’s view, the New Zealander has the composure to create a decisive moment for the All Blacks, making him a player South Africa must contain across the field rather than in one specific phase.

Despite the warning, Willemse described the Test as an opportunity for South Africa to measure themselves against high-level opposition. New Zealand’s changing attacking approach is expected to examine the Springboks’ defensive work in the air and across the wider channels.

The match will also mark Damian de Allende’s 100th Test for South Africa. Willemse praised his namesake before the milestone and recalled the earlier occasion when De Allende was incorrectly given the man-of-the-match award against England. Neither player treated that mistake as a major issue, and the focus now returns to a demanding meeting with New Zealand.