The Boks get the second Test match of their Outgoing Tour underway against Scotland on Saturday. Here we select three players worth keeping an eye on.
Elton Jantjies (No 10)
The ultimate team man, Jantjies’ value to the Springboks is undeniable. In spite of the wayward opinions of many casual Bok supporters, those that have followed the side closely over the past few seasons know that his behind-the-scenes work, leadership and rugby IQ have been vital to this Springbok side’s success. For those who listen, this Bok group has waxed lyrical about Jantjies’ importance within the dressing room for years now. Despite playing second fiddle to the excellent Handre Pollard, Jantjies’ upbeat attitude and willingness to study opposition playing patterns has been central to so much of what the Boks have gotten right in the Erasmus/Neinaber era. A career in coaching, it has been said, surely awaits the maverick playmaker.
But that is still some way off. For now, the former Lions skipper will be looking to make a rare start at No 10 count this week; especially playing opposite the genius of Finn Russell. With rain unlikely, Jantjies will look to make the most of his pack’s dominance to produce some sparkling offensive plays on the front foot.
Franco Mostert (No 5)
Alongside Jesse Kriel, Sous will this week join an illustrious group of players as he runs out to earn his 50th Test cap for South Africa. The versatile forward was inarguably one of the Boks’ best against the British & Irish Lions, with his work rate and physicality going a long way to sealing the series. While Scotland aren’t known for their forward play, Mostert will nevertheless need to put in a typically monstrous shift if they are to stave off the abilities of Finn Russell for the full 80.
Kwagga Smith (No 7)
Nick Mallett reckons Kwagga’s performance last week was his best in the Green and Gold, and he’d be tough to argue with. In conditions that certainly weren’t favourable to his style of play, the tireless loosie went on to produce a memorable display that underlines how valuable he can be at Test level. In drier conditions against a Scottish side that likes to play at pace, don’t bet against the third former Lion on this list raising his levels again at Murrayfield.
