After a thrilling victory against the All Blacks, the Springboks find themselves in a happy but complicated position ahead of their final two Rugby Championship Tests against Argentina.
The team’s impressive performance, largely driven by a revamped backline, has presented coach Rassie Erasmus with a genuine selection dilemma.
Young Players Shine, Veterans Sit Out
Throughout the season, Erasmus has rotated his squad consistently, but the standout performances by some of the younger players in Wellington cannot be ignored.
Plans to reintroduce veterans like Handre Pollard, Damian de Allende, Bongi Mbonambi, Vincent Koch, and Jesse Kriel may now need to be reconsidered.
A notable omission from the latest Springbok squad is 36-year-old Willie le Roux.
Not listed as injured, it appears the seasoned fullback has simply been “dropped,” a move signaling Erasmus’ willingness to back the emerging talent.
Position Shifts and Injury Adjustments
The serious injury suffered by Aphelele Fassi adds another layer to the selection puzzle.
Damian Willemse, who excelled at inside centre last weekend, is likely to move to fullback.
This could pave the way for Damian de Allende to return at 12, but Andre Esterhuizen’s brilliant display in Wellington complicates that decision.
Canan Moodie’s standout performance at 13 also puts pressure on Jesse Kriel, meaning the veteran may not immediately reclaim a starting spot despite a solid showing.
Meanwhile, both Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Manie Libbok impressed at flyhalf, which could keep Handre Pollard out of the matchday 23 once again.
Forward Pack Decisions
In the forwards, Lood de Jager’s injury clears a path for Eben Etzebeth to slot back in at No 4. However, the competition remains fierce.
Malcolm Marx and Jan-Hendrik Wessels have ensured strong hooker coverage, which could keep Bongi Mbonambi out.
Tighthead prop Vincent Koch may also sit this round as Thomas du Toit and Wilco Louw continue their strong form.
A Changing of the Guard
It’s clear that a shift is occurring within the Springboks squad.
The mix of emerging talent and established stars has created one of the most competitive selection scenarios Erasmus has faced this season.
With the Rugby Championship Tests against Argentina looming, the coach has plenty to mull over to ensure the best team takes the field.
Latest Springbok Squad
Forwards: Pieter-Steph du Toit, Thomas du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Vincent Koch, Siya Kolisi, Wilco Louw, Malcolm Marx, Bongi Mbonambi, Franco Mostert, Ox Nche, Ruan Nortje, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman, Marnus van der Merwe, Marco van Staden, Boan Venter, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Jasper Wiese.
Backs: Damian de Allende, Faf de Klerk, Andre Esterhuizen, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Ethan Hooker, Cheslin Kolbe, Jesse Kriel, Manie Libbok, Makazole Mapimpi, Canan Moodie, Handré Pollard, Cobus Reinach, Morne van den Berg, Damian Willemse, Grant Williams.