The 2023 rugby season was a rollercoaster ride for the Springboks, with highs and lows that left fans on the edge of their seats. Despite winning 11 out of 13 games, including clinching the Rugby Championship and a clean sweep on their end-of-year tour to the UK, center Jesse Kriel expressed his disappointment at not achieving a perfect season.
In a lighthearted moment during the UK tour, Kriel jokingly mentioned that he wanted to win all 13 games, emphasizing the team’s high standards and desire for perfection. Despite their dominant performances throughout the year, the Boks were not fully satisfied and believed they could improve even further.
Their final match against Wales in Cardiff showcased their dominance, with a powerful 45-12 victory. However, missed opportunities and unforced errors prevented them from reaching their full potential. While they managed to pull away for comfortable wins against Scotland and England, the team acknowledged that there was still room for improvement.
Kriel emphasized the importance of continuous growth and development, both individually and as a team. He praised the unity and selflessness of the players, highlighting their collective goal of winning for South Africa. With over 50 players contributing throughout the year, the Springboks are building something special and looking to build on their success in the upcoming season.
As the players return to their clubs, they will focus on honing their skills and improving their performance. The goal is to come back stronger and more cohesive as a team, ready to tackle the challenges of the next international season. Despite their achievements in 2023, the Springboks remain hungry for success and determined to raise the bar even higher in the future.
