Springboks front-row Thomas du Toit has pinpointed the scrum duel as a key factor ahead the world champions’ highly anticipated clash with Argentina in Santiago del Estero on Saturday.

Du Toit is preparing for an attritional affair in a hostile environment from the Boks’ host and described the battle at the set-piece as a “clash of the Titans”.

South Africa will head into the clash with Argentina in a confident mood as they have already secured the Freedom Cup against New Zealand and Nelson Mandela Challenge Plate against Australia.

The Boks head into their clash with Argentina sitting pretty atop the Rugby Championship table with 18 points amassed after notching four victories in as many games this year, while Los Pumas are in second place on 10 points, followed by New Zealand (seven) and Australia (four).

Boks close to a significant achievement

Beating Los Pumas on their home turf will be a significant achievement as it will mean for the first time in the Rugby Championship history that the Boks win six consecutive matches as they also finished their 2023 campaign on a high with a narrow 22-21 win over Argentina in Johannesburg.

Despite the Boks’ fine form, Du Toit is wary of their opponents and expects a tough challenge from their South American rivals.

“The scrums are going to be a proper clash of the Titans,” said Du Toit. “Argentina pride themselves on their scrum, so it’s going to be a proper battle.”

“Daan (Human, Springbok scrum coach) has good systems and he makes it tough for us during the week, which has prepared us well for the match, but we know it’s going to be a tough battle for the full 80 minutes.”

Du Toit will pack down at tighthead prop in a rare start for the Boks and when asked about the competition for places in the world champion’ squad, he replied: “We have unbelievable front-rowers, and you always have to give your best and keep up with the pace to stay in the team.”

Similarly to many other players in the squad, the Bath stalwart and 2019 Rugby World Cup-winner is determined to reward the trust placed in him by Springboks boss by Rassie Erasmus and Human to attempt to wrap up the championship on Saturday.

“The trust placed in us is a reality now more than ever,” said Du Toit, who has packed down on both sides of the scrum for the Boks.

“As players we feel the faith placed in us as the coaches continue to build the squad, but that also comes with a big responsibility, and we all know that, and believe in what is being built in the team.”

In fine form at Bath

The 29-year-old is excited about his new career path at Premiership outfit Bath, where he has caught the eye with several outstanding performances.

“Bath is great for me and my family and I’m excited to be at the club,” said Du Toit. “It’s also an honour and massive privilege for me to be here and part of this (Springbok) team again after everything that has happened.

“Like many other players, my journey has had its highs and lows, and the Sharks was a great foundation going into the next phase of my career at Bath. Every move has been underpinned by the fact that I want to be at the Springboks.”