The Springboks are set for a blockbuster clash against France in Paris this Saturday, and the timing for the team announcement is certainly noteworthy.
For the most part, Rassie Erasmus has generally opted to name his team at the start of the week, traditionally on a Tuesday, but occasionally even on a Monday.
However, for this Saturday’s clash against France, Erasmus will only reveal the team on Thursday at 15:00 (SA time).
Springboks set for several team changes for France Test
It’s certain that the Springboks will make a number of alterations to the team line up as Erasmus reverts to what will be the strongest possible matchday squad against France. Kick off is at 22:10 (SA time) on Saturday.
The Springboks arrived in France on Sunday afternoon and will begin their on-field preparations for Saturday’s match at Stade de France on Monday.
They did so without Ox Nche, who has had to return home due to an injury suffered against Japan, while Asenathi Ntlabakanye has now been called up.
Front row shift
Boan Venter or Thomas du Toit will now most likely start at loosehead after Nche was forced to leave the field in the 18th minute against Japan on Saturday, and returned to South Africa on Sunday, where he will undergo scans to determine the extent of his injury.
“We feel for Ox, and we wish him all the best with his injury and recovery,” said Erasmus.
“It’s always tough to lose a player of his calibre, but Asenathi is a capped Springbok and he has been with us for a large part of the season, so he is familiar with our structures and systems.
“Adding to that, he was on our standby list for the tour, so there was always a chance he would be called up if we suffered an injury. Fortunately, he was in London already, so he arrived at the team hotel this morning and will be able to slot back into action immediately, which is fantastic for us.”
