Crisis-hit Wales face daunting South Africa challenge in Cardiff - live updates
The Springboks have arrived for the Autumn Nations Series, where they will compete against Scotland, England, and Wales.
Wales aims to steer clear of ending 2024 without a victory as they take on the defending double world champions, South Africa, in Cardiff this afternoon, facing a tough challenge as major underdogs.
Warren Gatland's team appears to be lacking confidence and conviction, having now lost an unprecedented 11 consecutive matches. Even though they’re playing at home, bookmakers have them labeled as significant underdogs at 20-1 to pull off an upset against the formidable Springboks at the Principality Stadium.
Over the past year, Gatland has appeared quite defeated at times, and concerns about his job stability have grown significantly due to a particularly disappointing year. There's a genuine possibility that he could step down before the Six Nations starts in February.
A youthful and less experienced Welsh team is eager to perform well in their final match of the Autumn Nations Series. However, even with a few adjustments, the Springboks, coached by Rassie Erasmus, are expected to be far too strong for the Welsh after already securing victories against England and Scotland earlier this autumn, continuing their winning streak from the summer Rugby Championship.
Keep up with all the latest happenings from Cardiff in our live blog below:
Ben Thomas kicks off, and the match begins in Cardiff!
Harry Latham-Coyle, November 23, 2024, 5:41 PM
Wales Takes On South Africa
A large number of South Africans are present, evident from the green and gold colors in the crowd and the enthusiastic singing of their national anthem. However, their cheers quickly get overshadowed by a powerful rendition of “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau.” Although the Welsh team may be facing tough times, their fans always bring plenty of passion and spirit to the occasion.
Harry Latham-Coyle reported on November 23, 2024, at 5:40 PM.
Wales Faces Off Against South Africa
The players make their entrance just as the last few latecomers find their seats. Cardiff might have seemed a bit quieter than normal earlier in the day, but right now, the atmosphere is positive and lively.
Harry Latham-Coyle, November 23, 2024, 5:32 PM.
Wales Vs. South Africa: Match Officials Revealed
Official: Karl Dickson (England)
Line Judge 1: Christophe Ridley (England)
Assistant Referee 2: Damian Schneider from Argentina
TMO: Andrew Jackson (United Kingdom)
FPRO: Stuart Terheege (UK)
Certainly! Please provide the blog section you would like me to rewrite, and I'll get started on it.
Wales Vs. South Africa: A Clash Of Titans
Today has been an absolutely miserable day in Cardiff, with strong winds and heavy rain. Fortunately, everyone inside the Principality Stadium is protected from the bad weather.
Harry Latham-Coyle, November 23, 2024, 5:20 PM
Rowlands Backs Wales To Overcome Tough Springboks
Will Rowlands acknowledges that Wales is in a "harsh predicament" as they gear up to take on South Africa, coming off a streak of 11 consecutive Test losses and ongoing rumors surrounding the future of their head coach.
Wales and Warren Gatland are in a tough spot as they prepare for the Autumn Nations Series finale, which looks like it could end in a significant loss.
The Springboks, who are two-time world champions, come to Cardiff as the reigning Rugby Championship champions, boasting an impressive record of 10 victories in 12 matches this year.
Harry Latham-Coyle wrote on November 23, 2024, at 5:10 PM.
Cheslin Kolbe: World Player Of The Year Is Nice, But…
The person most likely to challenge Etzebeth for the individual award is his teammate, Cheslin Kolbe.
Harry Latham-Coyle, November 23, 2024, at 5:00 PM
Eben Etzebeth: Two Sides Of A Springbok Enforcer
Jean Kleyn's decision to withdraw yesterday paves the way for Eben Etzebeth to make yet another record-setting appearance, solidifying his status as the most experienced South African rugby player ever. With the possibility of receiving another World Player of the Year nomination, I had the opportunity to chat with him before the autumn season to gain insight into the mindset of the Springboks' powerhouse.
Harry Latham-Coyle, November 23, 2024, 4:50 PM
Harry Latham-Coyle reported on November 23, 2024, at 4:40 PM.
TNT Sports Optimistic About Autumn Nations Ratings
The rugby internationals taking place in November have attracted significant attention throughout Europe, and it's reported that leaders at governing organizations and broadcasters are happy with the audience numbers.
TNT Sports, now in their inaugural year as the UK broadcaster for the Autumn Nations Series after replacing Amazon, are reportedly quite pleased with the increasing interest they've seen each week in their first major, ongoing participation in international rugby.
The match between England and South Africa last weekend attracted a record number of viewers for the channel, previously known as BT Sport. The level of interest was comparable to that seen for major Premier League and Champions League matches.
Harry Latham-Coyle, November 23, 2024, at 4:30 PM
