Stephen Nell

Cape Town – New Zealand’s motivation for Saturday’s Tri-Nations clash against the Springboks will not be negatively affected by the fact that they have already virtually secured the Tri-Nations title.

That is the warning from former All Black wing John Kirwan, who is in South Africa as an ambassador for next year’s Rugby World Cup, which will be hosted in New Zealand.

“I think New Zealand are motivated by the fact that they were beaten 3-0 in Tests against the Springboks last year and that there is a World Cup around the corner,” said Kirwan.

“You have to be psychologically strong to win the World Cup. In 2003, England were helped by defying New Zealand with 13 men in a Test they won against the All Blacks in Wellington.

“The All Blacks are coming here to whitewash you guys. It’s important for their psyche ahead of the World Cup to be able to get up for a match like that.”

Kirwan, who coaches Japan’s national team, believes the All Blacks have turned the tables on the Springboks because they adapted to the law changes better.

“The game has benefited from the new law interpretations as they have promoted positive and attacking rugby,” he said.

“We have improved a lot in contact situations and the All Blacks are using their leg strength well to stay on their feet and drive over the advantage line.

“South Africa appear unsure whether they want to use kicking tactics or look for balance in their play. The All Blacks have taken their contact skills to the next level and there is a good balance between the kicking and the running game,” said Kirwan.

 “I think we are running the Boks around a bit and are forcing them to make decisions when they are tired.”

Kirwan added that he wished it was already “next year” because the Boks have had time to examine the problems.