🚨RASSIE ERASMUS BETS ON SPLIT SQUAD FOR FINAL RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP SHOWDOWN! | SPRINGBOKS NEWS
The Rugby Championship is heating up, and once again, Rassie Erasmus is making bold moves that have the rugby world buzzing. With key players like RG Snyman, Franco Mostert, and Lood de Jager sidelined due to injuries, Erasmus faces an uphill battle to maintain the Springboks’ momentum as they prepare for their final showdown against Argentina. But, if there’s one thing we know about Rassie, it’s that he’s never shy to make high-stakes gambles—and more often than not, they pay off big time!
The Springboks are missing significant firepower in their lock options. RG Snyman’s foot injury has him undergoing rehabilitation in Dublin, while Jean Kleyn and Franco Mostert remain out, recovering from surgery and injury, respectively. Add to this Lood de Jager’s long-term shoulder issue, and suddenly, the Boks’ usually stacked second-row options are looking a bit thin. With a combined 186 caps sidelined, it’s clear that Erasmus will need to call on less experienced players for the upcoming clash with Los Pumas.
Eben Etzebeth, who is a cornerstone of the team and its second-most capped player, is being considered for a rest as well. With Kolisi also potentially out due to nose surgery, this could open the door for Salmaan Moerat to take on the captaincy. Moerat, a fierce competitor, has been a standout this season despite some injury setbacks, and many believe he is more than ready to step into a leadership role.
Erasmus has hinted that Irne Herbst, who plays for Harlequins, might also be called up as part of a strategy to bolster the squad's depth. Erasmus, known for turning challenges into opportunities, could even dip into the Currie Cup talent pool to fill the gaps.
Erasmus has always been a master tactician, and his split-squad strategy is a well-documented tactic. The Bok coach is famous for balancing his A and B teams, often using rotation to keep his players fresh while giving opportunities to emerging talent. This method, while controversial at times, has brought South Africa major victories, including their 2019 Rugby Championship title.
In a similar scenario in 2019, Erasmus managed to lead his split squad to a dominating win over Australia. Many expect that, despite these challenges, the Boks will still perform at an elite level against Argentina. However, the loss of such experienced players in a high-stakes match could be a serious test of South Africa’s depth and their ability to adapt.
Adding another twist to this drama, winger Sbu Nkosi has been hit with a doping ban. This unfortunate development further complicates Erasmus’ squad selection, though Nkosi has had limited appearances recently. Nevertheless, it's another headline that rugby fans are following closely as the Boks prepare for their final match.
With Erasmus making big decisions, the Rugby Championship’s conclusion promises to be anything but predictable.
What’s your take on Rassie’s big bet? Can the Springboks deliver in Argentina despite these setbacks? Share your thoughts below!
