Springbok captain Bobby Skinstad said today that his team is confident of pulling off a win against the All Blacks,despite criticism from former players in the media.
The sides meet at Newlands on Saturday in the first match of the 2001 Tri-Nations series, which also features world champions and Lion tamers Australia.
Morning newspapers in South Africa featured several articles in which former players questioned the ability of the team and the unity of thesquad.
"We're in a bad situation and I hope we can pull it together," former lock Kobus Wiese told the Cape Times. "But there are big cracks and if thedam wall bursts it is going to be humiliating."
Skinstad though, was dismissive of the remarks and argued that his team were ready and focused for the match.
"Everyone is entitled to their opinion," Skinstad said. "A lot of people have achieved a lot more in a Springbok jersey than we have and I supposethey have a right to say things.
"But this team has prepared well, we are focused and we are confident in our own ability."
The South African side shows eight changes from the side that beat Italy 60-14 three weeks ago and features several inexperienced players inkey positions.
Flyhalf Butch James is playing in only his third test, while outside centre Marius Joubert makes his test debut.
Lock Victor Matfield is making only his second appearance while tighthead Cobus Visagie returns after having a drug suspension overturned.
"There are untried combinations but our preparations have gone well and the team trained well this morning," Skinstad said.
The teams have met 56 times since 1921 and the All Blacks have won 27, with South Africa winning 26. There have also been three draws.
"That is a huge motivating factor for the guys," Skinstad said. "I remember the 50th test was played and there was one game in it, which servedas a big motivation for us."
