Kolbe makes suprise return
Rudolph Jacobs
National coach Rassie Erasmus yesterday pulled the proverbial cat out of the bag when he called up the almost forgotton former Western Province fullback Cheslin Kolbe (above) for their Rugby Championship away trip to Australasia.
The uncapped Kolbe is one of six players recalled in the 31-man squad for Tests against Australia next weekend in Brisbane to be followed by the daunting challenge against the All Blacks in Wellington. Centres Jesse Kriel and Damian de Allende, scrumhalf Ross Cronje, veteran hooker Schalk Brits and loose forward Sikhumbuzo Notshe are also back in favour.
Having put the poor 32-19 loss to Argentina last weekend in Mendoza behind them, and ahead of the Boks departure tonight to Sydney, Erasmus said the twinkle-toed Kolbe has been in great form for his French club Toulouse and can play both fullback and wing. While he is uncapped, he was a non-playing member of the outgoing Bok tour two years ago.
“Cheslin has certainly grabbed his opportunities for his French club and he has earned his spot in the squad, he is in good form and we are delighted have him in the group,” said Erasmus, adding it was important to fall back on some experience like De Allende, Kriel and Cronje.
Players released include Bulls scrumhalf Ivan van Zyl, Sharks wing Lwazi Mvovo, Lions duo in centre Lionel Mapoe and lock Marvin Orie and Sharks hooker Akker van der Merwe.