Former All Blacks hooker Sean Fitzpatrick, writing for the New Zealand Herald , reflects on a week where the seemingly invincible All Blacks were finally defeated.
"First of all I just what to say thanks for all the advice this past week - and it's probably best if I stick to the rugby!
I was in Johannesburg during the week and experienced first-hand how passionate and desperate the fans in the Republic are to see their team get back to winning ways before the start of the Rugby World Cup.
By the time you read this you will probably know the result, but whatever happens this is a crucial game for both teams.
The Boks have gone down a different road from the All Blacks with their preparation.
Their first game at the RWC is against a Welsh team that is growing in confidence after their win against a below-par English team in Cardiff last week.
The selection of Bismarck du Plessis at No 2 in place of captain John Smit was the main talking-point in South Africa. For me it was the right rugby decision, given that du Plessis is one of the standout hookers in world rugby."
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