The Springboks will soon regroup to continue preparing for the upcoming November Tests, which will include four matches in the northern hemisphere.
As Rassie Erasmus continues to assess his squad options, it will be interesting to see whether there are many surprise selections when the team gets back together this month.
Interestingly, former Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer believes consideration should be given to Bulls loose forward Jeandré Rudolph, who been a reliable performer for the Pretoria-based side ever since returning from the Cheetahs.
“I think Jeandré is playing brilliant rugby at the moment. His technique at the breakdown is of the highest quality,” the former Springbok coach told Rapport.
“He can play six, seven and eight, but for me his greatest value is that he is an out-and-out specialist openside flank who is incredibly good over the ball.
“His ability to steal balls and win turnovers puts him among the very best in the business.”
Springboks are blessed with depth at loose forward
Despite Meyer’s endorsement, it does seem unlikely that Erasmus would consider the 32-year-old right now, although it does come at a time when ultimate utility loose forward Kwagga Smith remains unavailable due to injury.
“What makes Rudolph special is his work on the ground, his good ball-carrying ability and his versatility,” Meyer added.
“He is no longer one of the youngest players, but his current form is excellent. I believe he definitely deserves an opportunity to prove himself at a higher level.
“Especially with the World Cup approaching, it is important to develop enough depth in case one of our established loose forwards gets injured.”
On the end-of-year tour, which will conclude the Nations Championship tournament, the Springboks will face Italy, France and Ireland as well as one final opponent at the end of November.
end-of-year fixtures
- Saturday 7 November: Italy v Boks
- Venue: Allianz Stadium, Turin
- Kick off: 16:00
- Friday 13 November: France v Boks
- Venue: Stade de France, Paris
- Kick off: 22:00
- Saturday 21 November: Ireland v Boks
- Venue: Aviva Stadium, Dublin
- Kick off: 19:30
- 27–29 November: Finals Weekend
- Venue: Twickenham Stadium, London
- Kick off: TBC