Notshe’s big Bok break
NO 8: PERENNIAL SUBSTITUTE TO START IN PE CRUNCH
Coach Erasmus rings the changes for revenge mission.
What the Springboks have lost in the absence of Warren Whiteley at No 8, they are hoping to gain through Sikhumbuzo Notshe, according to coach Rassie Erasmus.
Notshe was included yesterday as one of four changes to the Bok team for tomorrow’s Rugby Championship clash against Australia at Nelson Mandela Stadium.
He was given his first start in his fifth Test in the place of Whiteley who has a groin injury.
“Warren had been very important in our calling system, so we will have to put a lot of emphasis on our communication levels,” Erasmus said.
“But their playing styles are basically the same. Warren is more experienced but Sikhumbuzo has settled in well during the last four Test matches.”
Loosehead prop Beast Mtawarira is set to return in place of Steven Kitshoff, Andre Esterhuizen and Jesse Kriel are the new centre combination and Cheslin Kolbe was named at rightwing for his first Test start.
“We have lost Lukhanyo Am and Damian de Allende to injury, which now gives an opportunity to Andre and Jesse,” the coach said.
“Andre has started in four Tests already this year, while Jesse has played most of his Test rugby at outside centre.”
Erasmus also explained why he has retained Willie le Roux at fullback after speculation he would give Damian Willemse his first start.
“Damian played very well last week in the Currie Cup, but we are showing respect for Australia and Willie will be our bargaining chip with all his experience after he was initially not available.”
Erasmus stressed how important the game was after the Boks lost 23-18 to Australia in Brisbane just a week before their stunning recent victory over the All Blacks.
“After the Brisbane Test, nobody gave us a chance against the All Blacks, but now everybody believes we are the big favourites against Australia,” he said.
“The fact is that we are playing a team that gave us a few shots the last time we played against them, so we know we are in for a tough challenge.”
Erasmus also revealed that Saracens prop Vincent Koch would return to contention for next week’s All Blacks Test.
Centre Ruhan Nel, meanwhile, has been released for Currie Cup duty.
“We have a saying that if you don’t train on the Tuesday then you don’t play on the Saturday,” Erasmus said.
“Vincent only joined us on Monday night, so we thought it would be unfair on the other players if we slotted him in straight away.”