Enemies on the field, massive respect for each other off it

There isn’t a better example to illustrate the respect between the Springboks and the All Blacks than the words that Damian de Allende used to describe his potential direct opponent in Saturday’s big World Cup Pool B clash in Yokohama.

Ryan Crotty is of course a strong contender for the All Black No 12 jersey for the match, particularly after Sonny Bill Williams was made to look pretty ordinary by the Boks when the two teams met in a Rugby Championship clash in Wellington seven weeks ago.

But Williams was rusty after a layoff then and has subsequently redeemed himself, and the champion off-loader could well be lining up against De Allende at the weekend.

"In the last few matches we have put Sonny Bill under a bit of pressure, but it is not just me who does that. It is as a team that we do that and on Saturday it is as a team we will be trying to put him under pressure again - if he plays," said De Allende.

"It's not just about me as an individual, it is not just about me against him. But we have had some good tussles both at international and franchise level and there have been times I've done well against him. It is important we put him under pressure and keep him under pressure. He has a great offloading game and that makes him dangerous. He is also powerful in the contacts.

"I don't know who they will start with in the midfield but what is important is that myself and my partner in the midfield focus on what we want to do in the game whether that is defence or attack, rather than get too deflected by what the opposition might do. The rest will then take care of itself. As long as we stick to our plan, as long as we stick to our systems, no matter who we face we will be fine."

AMAZING CHALLENGE

But in keeping with the massive respect there is between the two traditional powerhouses of world rugby, De Allende did give an indication of his high regard for Williams - both on and off the field.

"I do love playing him, as I have numerous times at all levels, and he presents an amazing challenge on the field. He is great off the field too, what he has done for humanity (in his personal capacity) has been amazing and really praise-worthy."

Williams has had an ongoing love affair with Cape Town and has built up friendships with some local sportsmen.

It is no secret that he nearly played for the Stormers a couple of years ago - he was available but the plan to recruit him was scuppered because of financial considerations at board level - and De Allende says he has enjoyed chatting to the former professional boxer and Rugby League star after their on-field battles.

"I wouldn't say we are mates, we don't hang around together off the field, but we do have a chat after the game and I respect him and think he is a really decent human being," said De Allende.