Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is expected to announce his squad for the November tour within the next two weeks before the squad reassembles later in October.
There should be around 34 players selected in the touring group as they prepare to face Japan, France, Italy, Ireland, and Wales on their five-match tour to Europe and the UK in November.
Although Erasmus is expected to retain the vast majority of the squad that he used during the Rugby Championship, there are some veteran players who will know they are facing serious competition for places.
Three Springboks who may battle to retain their place
Makazole Mapimpi
The veteran wing has spent some time with the Springboks this season, but the 35-year-old’s game-time has also naturally begin to diminish, even in the absence of Kurt-Lee Arendse. Young Ethan Hooker has taken great strides as an option out wide, while Arendse is expected to be back from injury for the end-of-year tour, meaning Mapimpi may well fall out of the mix.
Franco Mostert
The utility forward has been an incredible servant for the Springboks over the years, but as he approaches his 36th birthday, it is understandable that his role has also begun to change. Ruan Nortje has taken real ownership of the No 5 jersey, while RG Snyman is a natural selection among the bomb squad. Particularly with the Springboks seeming to now prefer a 5-3 split on the bench, Mostert may increasingly find himself fighting for a place in the wider squad.
Vincent Koch
The powerful prop has only featured as a substitute on two occasions this season as the Springboks have opted to hand more game-time to the likes of Thomas du Toit and Wilco Louw. Koch – who turns 36-years-old in March – is facing a period where it does seem as if he is beginning to be phased out.
