Damian Willemse has revealed that talk of South Africa sending a second-string team to face Italy fired up the players, calling the narrative "disrespectful" after their hard-fought victory in Turin.
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has called up experienced hooker Bongi Mbonambi and loosehead prop Ntuthuko Mchunu to strengthen his front-row department ahead of next weekend's Test against Ireland.
Japan head coach Eddie Jones says the frequency and severity of sanctions being handed out to players during international matches is getting out of hand.
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi commended his teammates for being "prepared for any scenario" after beating Italy despite being reduced to 14 men 11 minutes into the game.
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus questioned what more his players can do to avoid sanctions after his side received a permanent red card for the second week in a row.
The Springboks had to dig incredibly deep for the second week in a row after losing another man to a red card, ultimately displaying their trademark heart and fight to secure a 32-14 win over Italy in Turin.