The team’s the thing, insists WP’s Dobson

Western Province coach John Dobson believes the team dynamics weigh heavier in their Currie Cup clash against Griquas this afternoon than the return of their Springbok players.

Province had been boosted by the return of centre Damian de Allende, fullback Dillyn Leyds and prop Wilco Louw, all three players in dire need of game time.

De Allende and Leyds saw very little action with the Boks from the bench, while the uncapped Louw was an unused squad member after Coenie Oosthuizen broke his arm.

“It is great to have some players back from Springbok duty, but the focus is on delivering a convincing team performance,” Dobson said.

Leyds will link up at the back with wings Seabelo Senatla and Werner Kok.

De Allende forms a midfield partnership with Huw Jones, who shifts to outside centre with EW Viljoen out with an ankle injury.

Province still have a chance of a home semifinal but then they have to win all four remaining games, which includes trips to Pretoria, Johannesburg and Durban after this weekend.

While lock and captain Chris van Zyl will run out for his 50th Currie Cup game, Dobson mixed and matched combinations.

In the absence of scrumhalf Jano Vermaak, who is being rested, Dewaldt Duvenage links up with Damian Willemse at halfback with Justin Phillips and Rob du Preez set to make an impact in the second half.

The only two changes to the forward pack come in the front row as Louw returns and hooker Chad Solomon makes his first start.