Brits bites back
July 17, 2008 - 3:11pm
Story by: ARU
Saturday night’s Tri-Nation’s blockbuster at Subiaco Oval in Perth is taking on a spiteful edge, with Springbok hooker Schalk Brits hitting back at Qantas Wallabies lock Nathan Sharpe.
Earlier in the week Sharpe commented that the absence of Springbok captain John Smit and back up hooker Bismarck du Plessis, suspended after last week’s Test in Dunedin, could work in Australia's favour come line-out time on Saturday.
"He can say what he likes," shot back Brits. "The question is whether he can do the same sort of talking on the field."
27-year-old Brits, who made his Bok debut last month against Italy in Cape Town, was originally left at home for the away leg of the Tri-Nations, but now finds himself in the starting line-up to take on the Men of Gold.
In the space of two weeks, Brits has gone from being South Africa's third-ranked hooker to number one in the pecking order. He also becomes the third hooker to start for the Springboks in three Tests.
"I'll simply do my talking on the field" continued the fired up Stormers No.2.
Brits realises, nevertheless, that his throwing will be tested at Subiaco. The Springboks dominated the line-outs during last week's historic win against New Zealand, but the All Blacks were severely weakened in that area.
After the suspension of Brad Thorn, and following Ali Williams early exit in Dunedin, the All Blacks were left with two newcomers in the form of Anthony Boric and Kevin O'Neil who shared just three Test caps between them against the likes of Victor Matfield and Bakkies Botha (who boast 122 caps between them).
With Sharpe and the in-form James Horwill set to take the field on Saturday night, the Wallabies however will be more formidable in the line-out area.
"I must say the Aussies are pretty good in the line-out and it's going to be tough on Saturday," acknowledged Brits.
"But having lock forwards such as Andries Bekker, Victor (Matfield) and Bakkies (Botha) makes my job easier.
"I'm looking forward to the weekend” he finished, “I don't know whether I have ever looked forward to any match so much."
Some tickets to Saturday’s night’s big match are still available. Just call Ticketmaster on 1300 136 122 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.au
