The Springboks face a unique challenge this Saturday, 20 July 2024, as they prepare to take on Portugal in Bloemfontein for the first time ever. While the historic nature of the fixture brings excitement, the Boks must also address injury woes and use the match as an opportunity to experiment with different combinations after suffering a brutal loss against Ireland this past weekend.
Injury Replacements and Integration
Several key players, including Franco Mostert and Edwill van der Merwe, have been ruled out due to injuries, while Damian de Allende was permitted to exit the camp due to personal reasons. Coach Russie Erasmus announced on Saturday that some players will be let go on Wednesday after they finish the most important training sessions in preparation for their big game against Portugal. This also creates an opportunity for fringe players to stake their claim for a spot in the upcoming Rugby Championship.
Springboks vs Portugal: Boks Experimentation Against Portugal
With the Ireland series concluded in a 1-1 draw, the Portugal Test offers a chance to test different combinations and strategies before the crucial Rugby Championship matches against New Zealand and Argentina. Erasmus acknowledged that the defeat to Ireland last Saturday was disappointing, but he emphasized the importance of giving some players a rest for them to recharge before the demanding championship.
He stated that this is another strategy to give some new players a chance to play against a top international team as part of their long-term goal of developing a strong and deep squad for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. This new combination and Springboks squad could involve introducing new fly-half pairings or trialling variations in the backline.
Boks Maintaining Momentum
Despite the focus on experimentation, the Boks will undoubtedly seek to maintain their winning momentum. A convincing victory against Portugal would be a morale booster and showcase their dominance ahead of tougher tests. However, Portugal shouldn’t be underestimated, they impressed at the Rugby World Cup last year, defeating Fiji and drawing with Georgia. Their enterprising style of play could test the Springboks, especially if Erasmus fields a less experienced team.
Springbok squad for the match against Portugal:
- Props: Ntuthuko Mchunu, Ox Nche, Gerhard Steenekamp, Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Frans Malherbe, Vincent Koch, Trevor Nyakane, Thomas du Toit.
- Hookers: Bongi Mbonambi, Malcolm Marx, Johan Grobbelaar, Andre-Hugo Venter.
- Locks: Eben Etzebeth, Salmaan Moerat, RG Snyman.
- Loose forwards: Siya Kolisi, Elrigh Louw, Marco van Staden, Phepsi Buthelezi, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Ben-Jason Dixon, Evan Roos, Ruan Venter, Kwagga Smith, Jasper Wiese.
- Scrumhalves: Faf de Klerk, Grant Williams, Cobus Reinach, Morne van den Berg.
- Flyhalves: Handre Pollard, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Manie Libbok.
- Centres: Lukhanyo Am, Andre Esterhuizen, Jesse Kriel.
- Outside backs: Kurt-Lee Arendse, Cheslin Kolbe, Willie le Roux, Makazole Mapimpi, Aphelele Fassi, Quan Horn.
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