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Pride at stake

Hart: Biggest test for this team so far

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Posted: Saturday July 31, 1999 10:46 AM

John Hart: "These Tri-Nations tests are all about confidence." David Rogers/Allsport

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (Reuters) -- New Zealand coach John Hart expects to face a much-improved South Africa in their third Tri-Nations match in Pretoria next weekend.

Hart arrived in Johannesburg with his 26-strong squad early on Saturday before heading off to a game reserve for a two-day break adamant that despite the All Blacks victory in Dunedin three weeks ago, the match represented their toughest examination yet.

"Yes, this is definitely the biggest test for this team so far," Hart said. "Obviously to win at home is good, but this next match will be a big step forward for this young side."

After a week in which the Springboks captaincy changed from Gary Teichmann to Joost van der Westhuizen, Hart said he expected to face a stronger Springbok side despite its two successive defeats.

"You can never write the Springbok side off. There's a lot of pride and that's when they are dangerous. These Tri-Nations tests are all about confidence. In terms of the World Cup later this year, it will give stability to selection."

The All Blacks have won their opening Tri-Nations encounters against the Springboks and Australia and head the table. Australia is second following its victory over the winless Springboks.

 

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