Rassie’s Next Masterstroke? The Real Reason Behind This Bizarre Springbok No.10 Selection

The Springboks’ team announcement for their clash against the Barbarians produced one of the more intriguing selection decisions of the season, with coach Rassie Erasmus handing an unfamiliar role to a player not traditionally associated with the coveted No. 10 jersey.

For many supporters, the move may have come as a surprise. However, those who have followed the player’s development closely will know that his skill set has long suggested he could thrive in a more traditional playmaking role.

Speaking at a media conference alongside assistant coach Mzwandile Stick, Erasmus revealed that the decision was influenced by both player management considerations and a desire to explore future tactical options.

“I think Manie has played a lot of rugby on that side (in Japan),” Erasmus explained.

“We must see if Handré gets through the game this weekend without injury, and we learned our lesson last season when we played Japan and Ox Nche got injured in a game we didn’t have to play him in because he was already match fit.

“We are trying to avoid that with Manie. We also want to see whether Quan Horn can play at 10 and 15, which could help us in the future if we opt for a 6-2 split. We know he can play wing and fullback, and the assistant coaches all see something special in him when he plays at fly-half.”

Erasmus also highlighted the influence of the coaching staff in identifying Horn’s potential as a fly-half option, while expressing confidence in the young back’s ability to handle the responsibility.

“Vusi (Moyo) is on the bench, and he is one of the players who has really caught the eye over the last two weeks,” Erasmus added.

“He’s a very calm guy, physical, big, and he kicks effortlessly, so we believe the two of them can do the job for us.”

Another talking point surrounding the selection was who would assume the goal-kicking duties should the need arise.

Both Stick and Erasmus were quick to point to Cheslin Kolbe as a reliable option.

“Cheslin kicked for his club in Japan throughout the season, and he is always a backup for us,” said Stick.

Erasmus added that Horn himself possesses a strong kicking game.

“Quan is also a good kicker.”

When pressed on exactly what aspects of Horn’s game convinced the coaching staff that he could operate at fly-half, Erasmus revealed that the player has effectively been performing many of those duties already.

“Tony and Stokka have had a big influence there,” Erasmus said with a smile.

“For the Lions, there might not be a 10 on his back, but he certainly comes into the mix at 10 a lot, as a first receiver, and we’ve been working with him for three years.”

The Springbok coach pointed to Horn’s attacking instincts, defensive qualities and willingness to embrace contact as key reasons behind the experiment.

“We like the way he takes the ball to the line. He is an excellent defender, he has a really good pass, and he is not afraid if someone runs into that fly-half channel.

“We are fortunate to have great defenders at 10, and while it will be new for him to start there, he has alternated into the role during general play for the Lions on many occasions.”

The Springbok coaching staff clearly sees significant potential in Horn in the playmaking role, and his selection presents an opportunity to showcase his versatility at international level.

Should the experiment prove successful, it could provide South Africa with another valuable option as they continue to build greater depth and tactical flexibility ahead of the World Cup 2027.