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Damian Willemse is excited by the prospect of playing for silverware on an end-of-year tour for the first time, but warns the Springboks can't look past the threat of Italy.

Damian Willemse expressed excitement about competing for silverware on South Africa's end-of-year tour in the inaugural Nations Championship, while cautioning against looking past Italy. The Springboks, coached by Rassie Erasmus, resume their campaign on Saturday in Turin. South Africa currently leads the southern hemisphere table after securing July victories over England, Scotland, and Wales, aiming to reach the Twickenham finale scheduled for late November.
Willemse noted that a loss this week could end their title hopes and emphasized that Italy remains a dangerous opponent. South Africa previously defeated Italy 42-24 in Pretoria and 32-14 in Turin during the 2025 season. The 55-cap fullback also stated that the squad is eager to maintain momentum following their recent 43-28 series victory in Baltimore.

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