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SA Rugby Mobi-Unit coach Duane Vermeulen was confident that Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus selected the right mix of experience and youth to fight back from last week’s defeat against the All Blacks.
Springboks assistant coach, Duane Vermeulen says the new-look Springbok team will give younger players an opportunity to show their worth in pressure situations.
South Africa will face New Zealand in a fourth-round Rugby Championship match in Wellington on Saturday.
The four-time world champions lost to their hosts in Auckland last weekend after a disappointing performance.
The Boks must win the match at the Sky Stadium if they want to remain in the running to successfully defend their title.
They are currently third in the standings with 5 points behind New Zealand on 10 and Australia on 9 points.
Coach Rassie Erasmus has made several changes to his team, who will face the All Blacks on Saturday.
At lock, Lood de Jager and Ruan Nortje will join forces.
Eben Etzebeth was dropped from the match-day 23, with RG Snyman coming onto the bench.
Vermeulen says the rotation is necessary to avoid Etzebeth burning out and to give others an opportunity to flex their muscles.
Assistant Coach Duane Vermeulen says, “Obviously, it looks pretty weird if you have two five locks in your pack, but they play their part and they know exactly what they want to do and where they want to go with their game. It will be a good challenge to see if the guys can make a step up and also work without Eben.”
Jasper Wiese is also back in the fold after a four-game suspension. He will wear the number eight jersey. Vermeulen has welcomed Wiese’s return to the national team.
“He is one of the guys that gives us go-forward ball, so we’re looking forward to see what he brings to the game. Obviously, we still play with a good pack, but to be the link between the pack and the backline, we picked an exciting backline and I’m looking forward to see what he brings to the party.”
In contrast to Eden Park, the Boks have fond memories of Sky Stadium. In 2019, they played to a 16-all draw with the All Blacks, while beating the hosts 36-34, in 2018.
Captain Siya Kolisi will also play his 96th Test match. This leaves him only four matches short of becoming the ninth Springbok centurion in the history of the game.
All Blacks vs Springboks – New backline for Wellington clash
