South African prop CJ van der Linde believes the Springboks will need the oldest sort of domination in rugby – up front – if the are to win their Tests against Ireland and England next month.
The Boks travel north without the services of tight five stalwarts Victor Matfield and Os du Randt, both of whom are resting ahead of the World Cup and there now rests a responsibility on the more senior members of the squad to do well in their absence.
"In 2004 we struggled against the England pack," Van der Linde told Die Volksblad. "This time we will have to be better prepared, physically. But I believe we can stand up to them.
"The seniors will have to carry more responsibility because several players are being rested and there are a number of younger players in the squad," Van der Linde said.
Van der Linde has recovered from his neck injury but faces some stiff competition from Sharks prop BJ Botha for a place in the starting line-up. Botha was in good form in the Tri Nations victories at home against New Zealand and Australia.
"BJ played well and we will be up against each other for the place in the run-on team. There is healthy competition between us," Van der Linde added.
