Ruaidhri O'Connor: Greater familiarity has bred contempt in modern rugby rivalry between Ireland and South Africa
Briefly

The rugby rivalry between Ireland and South Africa has been significantly shaped by historical comments from Jake White, who infamously stated that only a trio of Irish players merited consideration for the Springboks. This moment, 21 years ago, marked the beginning of a tension-filled relationship between the two rugby nations. Today, important matches see players and coaches from both sides strategically preparing against each other, indicating that the competition exists both on the field and in the minds of those involved.
Jake White's historical criticism of Irish players, stating only Brian O'Driscoll, Paul O'Connell, and Malcolm O'Kelly were fit for the Springboks, sparked a modern rugby rivalry.
This rivalry, rooted in White's 21-year-old comments, has seen players and coaches from both nations become increasingly intertwined in strategy and psyche.
Read at Independent
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