Overview
- South Africa arrive as reigning world champions and Rugby Championship winners after tour victories over Japan at Wembley, France and Italy.
- Ireland warmed up with a record 46-19 win over Australia, with Henshaw on the scoresheet following earlier mixed autumn performances.
- Henshaw called the Springboks “the talk of world rugby,” praised their depth and said Ireland must meet them on the gainline to halt momentum.
- Eben Etzebeth said the fixture “stood out” on the calendar but dismissed any revenge angle and indicated the Boks will not alter their approach.
- Discipline at lock is in focus after Lood de Jager received a four-match ban that is under appeal and Franco Mostert awaits a ruling, with South Africa stressing second-row cover.