Dreyer one of three changes
AUCKLAND: Lions prop Ruan Dreyer will make his second test appearance for the Springboks when they play the All Blacks at North Harbour Stadium tomorrow night.
Dreyer is one of three changes Springbok coach Allister Coetzee has made the side that faced Australia in the Rugby Championship last weekend. He replaces fellow tighthead prop Coenie Oosthuizen, who broke his arm in last week’s 2323 draw in Perth.
Flanker Jaco Kriel was also sent home from Auckland after scans revealed a torn muscle in his shoulder and has been replaced in the starting side by JeanLuc du Preez.
‘‘We look at who we have and how we can get the best out of those players,’’ Coetzee said of his injuryenforced changes.
‘‘Ruan Dreyer has had a great Super Rugby season and I have got him to start because Trevor Nyakane brings great impact off the bench.
‘‘There are certain players who play a certain role and that has been working really well with our impact off the bench and that’s what I expect Trevor to do.’’
Lock Franco Mostert returns to the starting side to partner captain Eben Etzebeth in the second row with PieterSteph du Toit dropping on to the bench in the only other change.
‘‘Franco had five superb matches before he was rested last week,’’ Coetzee said.
‘‘He is refreshed again and I expect another strong performance from him as his high work rate is much needed.’’
The Springboks have impressed with their form this year, having beaten France 30 and then winning their first two Rugby Championship games against Argentina before the draw with Australia last week.
It is a far cry from last year when they were humiliated twice by the All Blacks but, despite the improved standards this season, Coetzee said there was little room for error.
‘‘We have buried 2016 as deep as possible. It’s a completely different team environment. It’s different individuals. The mindset is completely different,’’ Coetzee said.
‘‘International rugby is a game of slim margins. We have worked really hard for this one. We have prepared well. It’s always great to face the All Blacks in New Zealand.’’ — Reuters