SPRINGBOK coach Nick Mallett on Wednesday thanked the provinces in the Currie Cup semi-finals and final for their “sacrifice” by releasing their players for the Springbok Rugby World Cup camp, which begins on August 30. “The sacrifice the provinces have made in giving up their players is a recognition of how important this camp is to our preparations and confirmation that the national interests have been put first,” said Mallett. “At present all countries in the tournament are gearing up for the Rugby World Cup and this puts us on an equal footing. I am very pleased that I will have all 30 players at my disposal in order to prepare fully for the task that lies ahead.” The provinces strongly resisted releasing their players for the Currie Cup play-offs on September 4 and 11, but finally relented this week.