Tuesday 15 September 2015 13:31, UK
South Africa hooker Bismarck du Plessis believes his side have every chance of claiming World Cup glory - even if few outside of their camp fancy their credentials.
The 31-year-old is one of the survivors of the Springboks' 2007 World Cup final winning squad, but, on that occasion, he was an unused substitute in the 15-6 final victory over England.
Eight years on from that famous triumph, Du Plessis says South Africa once again have the depth of playing talent to emerge victorious, despite their results in the build-up to the competition in England being far from convincing.
"Not a lot is expected of us but we as a team have great expectations. We trained really hard and we give ourselves a chance," he said.
"We've got a great set of players who can play in a lot of different positions; players who can play at any stage and offer a good mix of youth and experience.
"Those who are playing their first World Cup can just play their game and the experienced guys will actually put us in the right areas."
Du Plessis, with 73 caps, is among nine players with the experience of winning the World Cup, a factor he said must not be overlooked.
"When I was in my first World Cup, I had the privilege of experienced players with me," he added.
"I tried to feed off them, I asked them what I could expect and what it felt like? Normally you play three or four tests and then go back to Super Rugby or your Premiership club but here you got to play seven games.
"There is quite a short turnaround for us after the end of the pool stage and then the pressure really toughens up and the screws turn tighter every time and the space gets smaller.
"I think experienced players have been in that situation before where you really have to perform under pressure."
Asked whether he preferred being a favourite or an underdog, Du Plessis said: "I just prefer playing rugby to be honest with you.
"I'm not a guy who reads much into what the media says or what people's opinions are. I look to the opinions of my fellow team mates."
