The Wallabies have their ammunition for a drought-busting Newlands ambush thanks to derogatory newspaper comments that have made the Springboks wince.

Coach Ewen McKenzie is certain to plaster the back-page of the Cape Times over the Australian dressing room wall after their chief rugby writer claimed the Wallabies didn't deserve to be on the same field as South Africa.

"Let's be honest about this - there is no way this Wallaby team should be living with the Boks, let alone play on the same field," wrote Ashfak Mohamed. "That is why it was actually embarrassing to see Heyneke Meyer's team roll over and die in their last match against Australia in Perth."

Jean de Villiers has down-played the press report © Getty Images

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Springboks captain Jean de Villiers, preparing for his last Test at his home ground, visibly winced when notified of the incendiary column at his press conference on Friday. Worried about what sort of motivation that would give the Wallabies, who haven't won in Cape Town since 1992, de Villiers stressed it would be a tough encounter.

"I wouldn't agree with that (belief)," the veteran centre said. "I think Australia have shown they have come a long way under Ewen and beat us the last time they played us (24-23) so I don't think there is any way we can say that. I always enjoy playing against Australia and it's never easy. Both sides have come out and said they want to keep the ball in hand and that will make for a great game."

Dry and sunny conditions are forecast and de Villiers also expects Welsh referee Nigel Owens will ensure an open contest that will suit both sides as they battle for the Mandela Plate and the world No. 2 ranking. The South African skipper spoke with class when he chose to ignore the media debate about the surprise selection of rising black flanker Oupa Mohoje ahead of 71-Test local hero Schalk Burger.

"What I care about is the individual, and the person, and Oupa is an unbelievable guy," he said. "I think we're way past those days where we judge each other by our colour. We play for each other and we care about each other."