Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is facing a significant selection dilemma for a critical role when choosing his primary Test team. The anticipation is mounting for the Springboks’ 2024 Test season, which kicks off with a game against Wales in June, marking Rassie Erasmus’s return as the official head coach. Yet, it is the two-Test series against Ireland in July that is garnering the most excitement as the year’s initial marquee matchups. Given that several key players will be unavailable for the opening game against Wales, it will be the first game against Ireland where Rassie Erasmus will have the opportunity to select his top 23 players. RASSIE ERASMUS FACES A CRUCIAL DECISION IN SELECTING THE STARTING SPRINGBOK SQUAD Generally, the Springbok coach has a clear idea of his starting lineup, with little reason to change from the team that competed in the 2023 World Cup final. With Duane Vermeulen retired, Jasper Wiese is seen as a natural successor. However, the major challenge for Erasmus lies in choosing his outside centre. Lukhanyo Am has long been the first choice at No 13, but a significant injury prevented him from starting at the Rugby World Cup. Jesse Kriel stepped up in Am’s absence, impressing critics with strong performances and solidifying his position in the 13 jersey by the end of the year. Am, who didn’t play in the World Cup, is now fully fit but hasn’t quite recaptured his form with the struggling Sharks team. Conversely, Kriel had to leave his Japanese club for hand surgery and is expected to return to play in the next few weeks. Erasmus’s decision on who to start against Ireland will be intriguing, with upcoming domestic games potentially playing a role in this decision. Should Kriel lack game time before the Test season begins, he might relinquish his starting spot to Am, who also needs to quickly find his top form. It’s a complex decision for Erasmus, but solving it is crucial for one of the team’s most important positions.
