As the Springbok coaching staff evaluates their options for the season’s first Test match, there may be a surprising shift in the choice of flyhalf.
The Springboks are set to play their first match since the previous year’s Rugby World Cup final at the famous Twickenham Stadium, facing Wales on Saturday, June 22. This London Test will be followed by a challenging two-game series against Ireland in Pretoria (July 6) and Durban (July 13), before taking on Portugal in their first-ever Test match a week later in Bloemfontein.
It’s important to note that the Wales game will be particularly distinctive. Being outside the international window, most players based overseas will be unavailable. Additionally, the URC final coincides with this date, potentially further impacting player availability.
Given these circumstances, there’s a strong possibility that Sharks flyhalf Siya Masuku could emerge as a leading candidate for the number 10 jersey. Masuku recently scored 22 points in the Sharks’ Challenge Cup semi-final victory over Clermont at the Twickenham Stoop, impressing with his kicking precision, a trait highly valued by the national coaching team.
According to the Sunday newspaper Rapport, Masuku’s recent run of man-of-the-match performances has earned him a spot in the next Springbok alignment camp.
While Lions players Jordan Hendrikse and Sanele Nohamba are also in the mix for the flyhalf position, Manie Libbok might be the go-to choice if the Stormers do not reach the URC final. However, with the Stormers in excellent form, their progression to the title match is likely.
THE SPRINGBOK COACHES FACE A TOUGH DECISION AT FLYHALF
Masuku made his Sharks debut in February, and coach John Plumtree has expressed confidence in his further development, describing him as a humble player who honors the opportunity to wear the jersey. “Siya’s a wonderful story. He’s performed well on the big stage,” said Plumtree. “He’s still improving. We can expect enhancements in his skill set, passing, and athletic performance. He hasn’t reached his full potential yet. He’s a confident player with excellent kicking skills.”
URC PLAYOFF RACE INTENSIFIES
In related news, recent bonus-point victories have kept the Bulls, Stormers, and Lions in contention for the United Rugby Championship quarter-finals. The Stormers showcased a robust second-half performance to secure a 44-21 win over the Dragons in Newport, followed by the Vodacom Bulls clinching a 40-34 victory against the leading Glasgow Warriors in Pretoria. Meanwhile, the Lions secured a 34-13 win over Cardiff in Johannesburg, although the Sharks faced a setback with a 25-24 defeat against Benetton.
