Johan Ackermann: 'Last thing we can do is underestimate Zebre'

Speaking ahead of the first-round fixture, Ackermann highlighted the challenges of the early season and the danger of taking any opponent lightly.

"Zebre will be excited to begin well at home and in front of the home crowd. It's a new season for them," Ackermann said.

He also noted the inherent uncertainty that comes with the opening weeks of a campaign.

"It's always a difficult one, week one, two, because you never know where you are, what areas are good and what areas are not so good," Ackermann said.

"Rugby is about opportunities. Hopefully those players will show that they can play at this level, and we're excited about the team and the players getting the opportunity."

Reflecting on their preparation for the 2026-27 campaign, the coach said the pre-season warm-up against the Stormers served two purposes.

"It was just a good hit-out from a rugby perspective, but we also used that week to get closer as a team," he said.

"Stravino Jacobs, Ruben Groenewald and Juan Else are bringing that depth in a lot of positions, and there's going to be fierce competition for the jersey," Ackermann said.

"If you've got the quality in the position, it allows you to rotate and keep the team strong. The squad has learned not to panic if things don't go our way."

Despite his confidence in his own squad, Ackermann made it clear Zebre cannot be taken lightly on home soil.

"The last thing we can do is underestimate how tough they're going to be in Parma," he stressed.