Ox Nche prepares for Dupont threat in Champions Cup clash

Antonie Dupont recently returned to the 15-a-side format after winning Olympic gold in rugby sevens
Antonie Dupont recently returned to the 15-a-side format after winning Olympic gold in rugby sevens
©Steve Haag

South African prop Ox Nche has acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Antoine Dupont as his Sharks team hosts Toulouse in a high-stakes Champions Cup clash this Saturday.

With a star-studded lineup that includes the French scrumhalf, Toulouse arrives in Durban looking to secure a last-16 spot in the tournament.

Dupont, who recently returned to the 15-a-side format after winning Olympic gold in rugby sevens, has been in remarkable form.

Rested for Toulouse’s league game against La Rochelle last weekend, the scrumhalf is expected to play a pivotal role in Saturday’s fixture.

Nche, aware of Dupont’s influence, shared the Sharks’ approach: “He’s a special, talented player and he is a big part of how Toulouse play,” Nche said.

“We obviously have to deal with it and not get caught with our pants around our knees.”

The Springbok prop emphasized the importance of player analysis, noting the Sharks are closely studying Dupont and other key Toulouse players to devise a counter-strategy.

The clash is being hyped as a reprise of the thrilling 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final, where the Springboks narrowly defeated France 29-28 en route to their championship win. Both teams are fielding squads packed with international stars, ensuring a fierce contest in the humid conditions of Durban.

“We are full of internationals, we’ve played against a lot of those guys,” Nche said. “It’s going to be a good challenge.”

 
 
 
 

European Rugby Champions Cup Points Table