By Springbok centurion Damian de Allende believes this weekend’s blockbuster clash against the All Blacks in Baltimore provides the ultimate platform to captivate American sports fans. The two powerhouse nations square off at M&T Bank Stadium on Saturday for the final fixture of the Castle Double Malt Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry (RGR) series.
Holding a two-one lead after last week’s encounter, the Springboks enter the fixture knowing a win or a draw will secure the series trophy, while an All Blacks victory would level the scores. Fresh off celebrating his milestone 100th Test match, De Allende acknowledged the grueling nature of facing New Zealand four weeks in a row.
“It is brutal, but it’s also a massive privilege to face the All Blacks four weeks in a row,” De Allende said. “It’s been great for all of us. It’s hard, but it’s a huge honour.”
The veteran midfielder, who will partner with long-time friend Jesse Kriel in the midfield, noted the immense challenge posed by world-class opposition. While reflecting on legendary past matchups against the likes of Ma’a Nonu, Conrad Smith, and Sonny-Bill Williams, De Allende singled out current adversary Jordie Barrett for high praise.
“At the moment, the one player who really stands out for me is Jordie Barrett. His skill set is incredible,” De Allende noted, adding that battling Barrett over the past three weeks has been a privilege. “I always like to learn a lot from my opposition on the field, and I feel like I’ve learned a great deal from Jordie.”
With the United States set to host the 2031 Rugby World Cup, Saturday’s encounter serves as a crucial exhibition for developing local interest. De Allende hopes the spectacle will introduce newcomers to the intensity of Test rugby.
“In America they don’t know the sport as well as we do, but the best way to sell it is to have them come to the stadium, enjoy the experience, and see the top two teams in the world play,” said De Allende. “That’s the best product they can witness in America right now, and hopefully there will be as many South Africans as possible there, but also a lot of American supporters.”
Following a recovery and mental reset day on Thursday, the Springboks are primed for kickoff at 17h00, with the match broadcast live on SuperSport.
