One of the major selection decisions facing the Springboks ahead of the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals is who will start in the front row.
The experienced duo of Frans Malherbe and Steven Kitshoff have been the preferred starters against stronger teams, with Trevor Nyakane and Ox Nche providing impact off the bench.
However, Nche has been exceptional in France so far, making him a standout candidate for a starting spot. The coaching staff will need to weigh the pros and cons of each option.
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Jasper Wiese has been chosen over the veteran Duane Vermeulen in the big games, but there is a growing belief that the Springboks could be even stronger with Vermeulen in the starting lineup.
Vermeulen brings power, leadership, and experience to the team. As the competition enters the business end, it will be interesting to see if the Boks surprise everyone by naming Vermeulen as their starter.
With Handre Pollard back in the squad, the Springboks face a selection dilemma at fly-half. Pollard started in the last game against Tonga, but rookie playmaker Manie Libbok has shown promise in getting the best out of the backs.
Both players could be part of the match-day squad, but one may have to sit out the crucial quarter-final depending on the makeup of the bench.
Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel have been the preferred midfield pairing, but their performances have been steady rather than outstanding.
Andre Esterhuizen and Canan Moodie offer more attacking flair and could pose problems for the opposition with their ball-carrying abilities. The coaching staff will need to decide if it’s time for a change in the midfield combination.
The composition of the bench is another major selection decision for the Springboks. The traditional 5-3 split provides more options among the backs, while a 6-2 split backs the pack to grind down the opposition.
The coaching staff will need to carefully consider the strengths and weaknesses of each option before making their decision.
