Steyn backs Lions halfbacks for Boks

Springbok legend Morne Steyn has backed a cluster of Lions players to force their way into the Springbok frame for the coming international season that kicks off in June.

The Boks have a massive two game incoming Test series against Ireland in July and the Rugby Championship, where most of their core players from the previous World Cup cycle will be involved.

However they have a match against Wales at Twickenham that falls outside of the international window and a game against Portugal in Bloemfontein which will be an ideal opportunity to blood some exciting new talent for the current cycle.

The Lions had six players called up for the Bok alignment camp in March – backs Sanele Nohamba, Quan Horn, Jordan Hendrikse, Henco van Wyk and Morne van den Berg, as well as forward Ruan Venter.

Van Wyk has unfortunately been ruled out for the remainder of the season after undergoing knee surgery. Steyn believes the half-backs in particular have a good chance.

“I really hope so (they are picked). This is the time to give them a chance and test them. I think Rassie (Erasmus) knows the core of his team, what his plans are and who the main guys are,” explained Steyn.

“I think it’s a good time now to give some of the up-and-coming guys a chance. There are a lot of them who are playing some good rugby now. So might as well give them a chance and see how they do at Test level.”

Nohamba has been a revelation at flyhalf for the Lions this season, despite being a scrum-half. Flyhalf Hendrikse has really impressed as well, so Steyn believes they could both play together for the Boks against Wales or Portugal.

“We needed another option and Sanele slotted in at 10 and has done very well,” said Steyn.

“There is definitely an opportunity for them (Nohamba and Hendrikse).

“They are in the (Bok) group now and must prove they belong there,” added Steyn.