Springboks Test Week Kicks Off as Rassie Erasmus Begins Second Tenure Against Wales
(BBC Rugby Union, May 29, 2023)
The highly anticipated Springboks Test week is finally upon us as Rassie Erasmus embarks on his second tenure as head coach, taking on Warren Gatland’s Wales at Twickenham Stadium this Saturday.
Erasmus will have closely observed the Bulls’ remarkable performance in their United Rugby Championship (URC) semi-final victory over former Springboks coach Jacques Nienaber’s Leinster side. The dominant scrum display by the Bulls’ front-row of Gerhard Steenekamp, Johan Grobbelaar, and Wilco Louw is sure to have caught the attention of scrum guru Daan Human, showcasing the depth of rugby union talent in South Africa.
As the Springboks depart for the United Kingdom this week ahead of the first Test match of 2024, Bokrometer takes a closer look at the players who have impressed Erasmus and his coaching staff with their club performances, while also examining the growing injury concerns.
“Ruan Nortje, Cameron Hanekom, and Elrigh Louw all delivered standout displays for the Bulls, putting their hands up for Springboks selection with dynamic showings against the Irish internationals. Veteran Willie le Roux once again demonstrated his class, orchestrating the Bulls’ tactical masterclass, while the likes of Johan Goosen and Dillyn Leyds have also staked their claims for a Springboks recall.”
However, the injury list continues to grow, with Lood de Jager the latest casualty, set to miss the July internationals along with several other key players. Erasmus will be hoping to navigate these setbacks as he prepares his squad to take on Gatland’s men in a highly anticipated Test match.
As the rugby union world turns its attention to the Springboks’ upcoming campaign, the performances of these talented players at the club level have certainly given Erasmus plenty to ponder ahead of the crucial Test against Wales.
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