Brian O’Driscoll is wary of depleted Springboks
Irish captain Brian O’Driscoll insisted that South Africa will be a difficult prospect for his team as they prepare for their opening Test in their first game at the new Aviva Stadium.
Ireland will face a depleted Springboks side on Saturday, 6 November, but the centre is taking nothing for granted.
Despite being favourites for the contest, the British and Irish Lion knows that his team face a tough challenge.
"I’ve never seen a poor touring Springboks team and I don’t envisage them being any different this weekend," O’Driscoll told the media at a press conference in Dublin.
The Irish captain also suggested that South Africa would be extremely motivated going into the game after under achieving in the Tri Nations and because of their recent record against the Irish.
"Having lost the last three games in Dublin I’m sure they’ll be trying to make a point of changing that."
The Irish captain also rejected questions put to him that Ireland would hold an advantage because of the 13 injuries to the South African team including a neck injury to inspirational captain John Smit.
"They have large numbers who play in South Africa and have lots of quality. Some of the guys have a wealth experience against top teams, playing against New Zealand and Australia a number of times."
O’Driscoll suggested that the match may be tougher for Ireland as they are under pressure to win on their debut match at the Aviva Stadium.
The centre also stated that the old stadium was an intimidating place for visiting teams that gave Ireland an advantage in the past.
"Coming into the old Lansdowne Road there were gale force winds to help out and opposition teams weren’t used to playing in the conditions. Now it’s a more aesthetically pleasing place for teams to come into."
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