Rugby Players' Guide to France 2023: Former Test lock gives thumbs-up to Boks' World Cup base

Did we expect anything else? 

Given the Springbok coaching staff's reputation for being meticulous in terms of their preparation, it isn't surprising that former Test lock Juandre Kruger believes the national setup most significant box-ticking exercise ahead of the World Cup in France is their base in the country.

South Africa nestled themselves in Toulon during last year's end-of-year tour to Europe specifically to gain an early glimpse of their surroundings and facilities for the showpiece. 

It's a decision, Kruger tells Dan Nichol in the latest edition of Rugby Players’ Guide to France, an exciting new series produced by BrightRock that gives SA rugby fans a slice of the French way of rugby and life ahead of the World Cup, will pay off.

"I recently went up to visit again in Toulon, where the Boks will be based," he said.

"It's a phenomenal setup they've got there. It's world-class. I believe the Boks have positioned themselves in a great place. It's going to be an awesome World Cup."

Except for the high-performance and mental aspects of the choice of base, the team should also benefit from the south of France's distinctly more raw support of the game, which should prove a productive, constant reminder of why they're really there (except for winning the trophy naturally): for the love of the game.

It's actually an important point as the Boks - in switching between Paris and Marseille for the pool stage - will be confronted with the fascinating difference in vibes between the two cities.

"Paris is a little bit different. You've got Racing 92 and Stade Francais, two really strong clubs who've won the Top14. Also, those two clubs were instrumental too in the establishment of a great clothing brand in Eden Park [which creates