What is Rugby?

Well, it seems that the surprise defeat last week of the New Zealand All Blacks by the Australian Wallabies has resulted in most major media outlets all but handing a win to the home team in Sydney tomorrow against the visiting South African Springboks. In addition to Australia’s confidence-building match last week, the South African’s are sending their second XV and resting their top 20 players.

Those of you who know me are aware of my penchant for the underdogs, so naturally I am counting on the Springboks to show the depth of their rugby program. But it’s more than that.

I see a tired, (over)confident group of banged-up veterans in yellow jumpers (Australia) taking the field against a crew of guys in green (South Africa) who have nothing to lose, are not as battle-weary and know that a great performance could land them a spot at the big dance in France in the fall.

I don’t think it will be easy, but if the ball bounces right and the rugby gods are shining down, look for the Springboks to take the lead in the Tri-nations tables tomorrow.