Raymond not Rhuled out yet

– Springbok coach Allister Coetzee insists he hadn’t thrown wing Raymond Rhule to the wolves when he dropped him from the side for tomorrow’s Rugby Championship clash against Australia.

In three changes to the side, Dillyn Leyds has replaced Rhule, while scrumhalf Ross Cronje comes in for Francois Hougaard and Francois Louw replaces JeanLuc du Preez on the flank.

The only other change on the bench is the addition of hooker Chiliboy Ralepelle who has come in for his first appearance since 2013.

“I haven’t discarded Raymond, he will join us again on Sunday for the New Zealand Test week,” said Coetzee.

“I’m happy with him, his kickchase is good but the reality is that he has to work on his defence.”

Coetzee said however in the same breath he is excited to see what Leyds can add to the side.

“Dillyn has great awareness and he knows what we need from him on defence,” said Coetzee.

Coetzee also said the return of Cronje and Louw will benefit the side a great deal.

“Francois understands his role and he brings calmness to the side, while he is also great in his support to our leaders in the side,” said Coetzee.

“It’s also brilliant to welcome Ross back, he is a class player and he has shown it. We miss him when he is not here with us.”

After the humiliating 57-0 defeat against the All Blacks, Coetzee said he was looking forward to see how the team will respond.

“We don’t play out of the fear of winning or losing,” he said.

“It’s an important Test match but every Test match is important and the results are important. But that will only come when the basics are done 100%.”

Coetzee said while conditions could change their tactics as the possibility of rain is predicted, they will remain focused.

“We expect a hard Test in Bloemfontein, but hopefully we have learned from our mistakes and take it into this weekend.”

Also see Page 47