The Rugby World Cup 2023 is fast approaching and the South African national team, the Springboks, are in a race against time to finalize their squad. With just two Tests against Argentina left to evaluate players, head coach Jacques Nienaber is feeling the pressure.
The first game will take place at Ellis Park on July 29th, followed by a friendly match in Argentina on August 6th. These matches will be the last opportunities for players to stake their claim and secure a spot in the Rugby World Cup defense.
Several players have already caught the eye of the selectors with their performances against Australia. Andre Esterhuizen, Grant Williams, Marco van Staden, Jean Kleyn, Canan Moodie, and Marvin Orie have all showcased their potential and are eager for more playing time to prove their worth.
Out of this group, Williams is the only one who had the opportunity to play against New Zealand. He stepped in as a replacement for the experienced Faf de Klerk and put on an impressive display. This has put him in contention for the scrumhalf position, although he faces tough competition from the likes of De Klerk, Jaden Hendrikse, Cobus Reinach, and Herschel Jantjies.
For players like Orie, Kleyn, Van Staden, rookie winger Moodie, and eighthman Evan Roos, the road to the Rugby World Cup squad is challenging. However, a standout performance against Argentina could be their ticket to France.
Herschel Jantjies, who was once considered a key player, now finds himself falling behind in the pecking order. Alongside fellow playmaker Elton Jantjies, he faces an uphill battle to secure a spot in the final squad.
The Springboks are well aware that they have a tough group in the Rugby World Cup, with Scotland, Romania, Ireland, and Tonga standing in their way. Therefore, these upcoming matches against Argentina are crucial for players to prove their abilities and make a lasting impression.
With the clock ticking, these fringe players must seize the opportunity before them. It’s now or never for them to achieve their dream of representing South Africa in the Rugby World Cup. The pressure is on, and they must make every moment on the field count.
The countdown to the Rugby World Cup 2023 is in full swing, and the Springboks’ final boarding call to France is imminent.
