Springboks have an array of star injuries, but that doesn’t mean they will struggle to fill the positions with arguably just as talented replacements.
South African rugby has become synonymous with depth, able to field A and B sides that, many believe, would both be World Cup contenders. However, injuries (especially to regulars) still hurt, and that’s something Erasmus is currently navigating.
The front row has taken a few blows in the build-up to Springboks’ 2025 season. Double World Cup winner Steven Kitshoff was forced into retirement after sustaining a free injury to the neck, while Trevor Nyakane and Frans Malherbe are unlikely to feature this year.
Finding additional front rowers shouldn’t be an issue for Erasmus, who has already mentioned the likes of Wilco Louw, Thomas du Toit and the uncapped Neethling Fouche.
Erasmus offers insight
“Frans is unlikely to play this season again, Trevor definitely not,” the Springboks coach noted.
“Neethling is not a boy anymore, around 30 [32], which is a lekker age for a tighthead prop. Thomas du Toit is doing well with Bath. He is one of the top players there. Wilco is doing well.”
“We are not going to change our game. We want to retain that forward power. There will be new faces in the front row this year.”
Who is the Springboks’ best current front row?
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