In the world of rugby, there are moments etched in the hearts of fans and players alike, moments that define the sport’s beauty and brutality. One such moment, or perhaps the lack of it, was when England faced off against South Africa in the 2019 Rugby World Cup final. While rugby enthusiasts across the globe were glued to their screens, one notable absentee from the viewing party was England’s Danny Care.
“I took the kids to Guildford to a trampoline place because I couldn’t watch it,” Care candidly admitted on the BBC’s Rugby Union Daily podcast. It’s a vivid reminder that even the most seasoned players have their vulnerabilities, their moments of fragility, and yes, even their apprehensions when it comes to watching their own national team.
Care, the Harlequins scrum-half, had been omitted from England’s squad for the 2019 tournament in Japan. The reasons behind his trampoline outing are a mix of nerves as an England fan and an unquenchable thirst to be on the pitch. “Probably the latter,” he answered when asked about it. “I remember being blown away by how incredible the lads were that day [when they beat New Zealand in the semi-finals].”
The journey to that final was exhilarating, and it’s the kind of spectacle that can be overwhelming for someone who had, in many ways, sacrificed and invested so much in the sport. “When it got to the final, my wife said ‘what do you want to do?’ I said ‘I don’t think I can watch it.’ That was the only time it probably hit me what I was missing out on – the chance to play for your country in a World Cup final, which was tough to take.”
Fast forward to 2023, and Care is on the verge of redemption. He’s been a vital part of England’s campaign in France, gracing the field in four of their five games, including their nail-biting quarter-final victory against Fiji. With the semi-final against South Africa looming, Care’s perspective is one that reflects a sense of determination and the belief that anything is possible. “We’re sat here as one of four, one team has to win it. Why not us?” he boldly declares.
England’s approach has been methodical, staying laser-focused on the task at hand. They understand the enormity of the challenge they face against the reigning world champions. “We’re only focusing on this weekend and we’ve said it the whole time – you can’t look any further than this game, especially against the world champions.”
The 2019 final defeat still lingers in the air. South Africa’s director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus, recognizes that there’s more to this game than just a place in the final. “I think because they’ve played us in the World Cup final, they will have some beef with us,” he acknowledges. Expecting a physical battle, he rightly predicts that England will be looking for revenge.
Handre Pollard, South Africa’s fly-half, echoes a similar sentiment. He recalls the heartache of a semi-final exit in the 2015 World Cup and the lasting impact it had. “There’s a lot of things you look back on and regret, and maybe think you could have done differently, and I’m sure they will come with that mindset this weekend.” The prospect of a fiercely intense match is something both teams are embracing.
England’s journey to the semi-finals has been marked by an impressive winning streak, something that not many expected given their less-than-stellar form leading up to the tournament. As former fly-half Paul Grayson notes, they’ve “progressed” in France and have shown the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. In the semi-final, they step onto the pitch as underdogs, but that, Grayson suggests, can be a powerful motivator. “It’s a free shot for England because few people will give them a chance of winning. Sometimes, as a sportsperson, that’s just the motivation you need.”
The 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final between England and South Africa promises to be a thrilling showdown. As the two giants of the rugby world collide, the stakes are higher than ever, and for Danny Care, it’s a chance at redemption and to etch a different memory onto his rugby journey—one that involves watching England triumph in the World Cup semi-final.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rugby World Cup 2023
What is Danny Care’s reflection on the 2019 Rugby World Cup?
Danny Care candidly reveals that he couldn’t watch the 2019 Rugby World Cup final due to his omission from the squad, acknowledging his longing to be on the pitch.
How does Care feel about England’s 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign?
Care is optimistic and determined, believing that England has a genuine chance to win. He emphasizes the team’s focused, methodical approach to each game.
What do South Africa’s rugby leaders, Rassie Erasmus and Handre Pollard, say about England’s motivation?
Both Erasmus and Pollard acknowledge that England will be motivated by their previous World Cup final loss to South Africa, expecting a physical and intense encounter.
What is the perspective on England’s underdog status in the 2023 semi-final?
Former fly-half Paul Grayson notes that England sees their underdog status as a motivating factor, giving them the freedom to perform without the weight of expectations.
What can we expect from the 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final between England and South Africa?
The semi-final promises a thrilling showdown with high stakes, redemption at play for Care, and a battle of determination and intensity between the two rugby giants.
More about Rugby World Cup 2023
- Danny Care’s interview on BBC’s Rugby Union Daily podcast
- 2023 Rugby World Cup coverage on BBC Sport
- South Africa’s director of rugby Rassie Erasmus
- Handre Pollard’s thoughts on England’s motivation
- Paul Grayson’s insights on England’s progress
- 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final anticipation
4 comments
rugby’s got its drama just like the movies, and this story’s got it all, mate!
Grayson’s got a point, being the underdog can give you that fire to win, watch out for england!
danny care’s honesty shines through! he couldnt watch the 2019 final! rugby’s tough, innit?
england’s spirit is wow, they’ve gotta do it!