Erasmus: “No Major Areas Of Concern”

Once a perturbed man, Rassie Erasmus believes the Springboks have made significant progress in building squad depth this season and says there are currently no areas of major concern.

Squad depth was identified as one of South Africa’s key objectives at the start of the season, alongside winning matches. Erasmus feels the Springboks are now in a much stronger position than they were earlier in the campaign.

“We had issues at lock, which was a worry. We were left with Riley Norton and Ben-Jason Dixon having to fill in at lock, so we’re glad that we are in a healthier position now,” Erasmus said.

The return of several experienced players has eased those concerns. RG Snyman is expected back early next year, while Salmaan Moerat is set to return to action in the coming weeks. Ruan Nortje has also established himself as a reliable option at lock.

The Springboks have also benefited from giving Ben-Jason Dixon and Cobus Wiese opportunities in the second row, while Franco Mostert is now available and expected to feature against Australia.

“Most of the senior players are injury-free now,” Erasmus said.

Scrum-half was another position that required attention, with questions over how long Cobus Reinach could continue performing at the highest level. At 36, however, Reinach has continued to deliver following a stellar international season last year.

“We weren’t sure how the legs of Cobus Reinach would hold up, but at 36 years old, he is definitely doing the job,” Erasmus said.

The Springboks have also assessed Faf de Klerk and Embrose Papier, while Damian Willemse’s versatility provides another option at fly-half.

At fullback, the emergence of Quan Horn and the presence of Aphelele Fassi have added further depth.

“We had a look at Faf and we know how well he is playing at the Cheetahs. Embrose was also given a run.

“We have three proper fly-halves, with Damian, who can also play in that position. Quan Horn has come through at fullback with Aphelele Fassi,” added the Springbok tactician.

For Erasmus, the result of that planning is a squad that now offers options across the field.

“Right now, I don’t think there is an area where we are in trouble,” he said. “I think we are doing okay.”

A victory for the Springboks at M&T Bank Stadium against the All Blacks will secure the inaugural Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry title, while a win for the All Blacks would see the sides draw the series 2-2 after New Zealand won the opening Test.