Coetzee can’t ignore Faf de Klerk

Iknow my plea will fall on deaf ears but please, please, Allister Coetzee, don’t recall JP Pietersen, Bryan Habana, Bismarck du Plessis, Frans Steyn, Morne Steyn, Jannie du Plessis and Duane Vermeulen to play in the Springbok side.

They have all passed their sell-by date and recalling them will be a slap in the face for all those at home vying for a place in the side.

If Coetzee, pictured, deems it fit to discard Faf de Klerk, he does so at his own peril. Jano Vermaak is past his best, Cobus Reinach is not up to scratch and Dewald Duvenhage is a good and reliable substitute in case of injury.

De Klerk is a rare talent. Small, elusive, like lightning on the break, tackling big guys twice his size, he is not scared to dive into rucks and has saved many a try by the opposition. He plays the game as he sees it and is a joy to watch.

Ross Cronje is my other choice. He needs a chance to show his worth. He won’t let a side down. Warren Whiteley is a must for the captaincy.

I also favour Lionel Cronje at flyhalf. Experienced, with an eye for the gap, a good boot and a captain who is cool and composed under pressure. He has been a revelation for the Kings.

Pat Lambie, Curwin Bosch and Elton Jantjies, in that order, as substitutes. At fullback, look no further than SP Marais and Andries Coetzee, with Jesse Kriel in third place. Chris Cloete, a real toughie, has impressed with his high work rate and no-nonsense approach. John, Germiston