South African Rugby Opus News

While the Springboks were in the UK in November and December, on a tour which brought victories over Ireland, Wales and England, they also took a little time out from a very hectic schedule to help us capture the spirit of an international test match in a unique and exciting way.

Having sent a dummy copy of The Official Springboks Opus over to the team hotel so the players and coaches could see the sheer size of the finished product, they were only too happy to help us secure some exceptional footage from the day of the match against England. Duif Du Toit, a well-known photographer with official agency Gallo Images, took a very special set of pictures detailing the whole day from start to finish. It all adds up to a remarkable photo essay which will be seen in its entirety in the Opus and reveal the behind-the-scenes activity on a matchday as has never been seen before.

But for now, here are a couple of tasters, of Springbok captain Victor Matfield in a quiet moment before the game and coach Peter De Villiers (left) celebrates the victory with refereeing coach Neville Heilbron.