Rassie Erasmus, the Springbok coach, has a challenging task ahead of him as he prepares for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia. With the tournament just over a year away, it's time to consider some potential bolters who could make a significant impact. Here's a look at five players who could be key additions to the Springbok squad.
Paul de Villiers: The Rising Star
In my opinion, one player who has caught my eye is Paul de Villiers. This Stormers No.6 has been compared to the legendary Heinrich Brüssow, and for good reason. De Villiers' incredible work rate, poaching ability, and speed across the park are truly remarkable. He has been a consistent performer in the United Rugby Championship and Champions Cup, earning multiple player-of-the-match awards. While Siya Kolisi remains Erasmus' first choice at No.6, de Villiers could be the perfect backup, offering a unique skill set to slow down opposition ball. His ability to steal possession and his Test rugby prowess make him a player who will only get better with time.
Riley Norton: Versatility and Balance
Another player who deserves consideration is Riley Norton. Despite not having played a single URC game, Erasmus showed faith in him by selecting him for the Boks' non-Test international against the Barbarians. Norton's performance was impressive, and his international debut was marked by a try. The current age profile of Springbok locks is a concern, with RG Snyman, Jean Kleyn, and Eben Etzebeth being injury-prone. Norton brings balance to the lock stocks and offers versatility, being able to slot in at loose forward like Pieter-Steph du Toit. His potential to become a regular green and gold jersey wearer makes him a strong contender for the 2027 RWC squad.
Jaco Williams: Speed and Versatility
Jaco Williams, a 20-year-old speedster, made his Test debut against Wales and played like a seasoned veteran. While he has areas around his game that require polishing, such as high-ball contesting, his versatility is a significant advantage. Williams can play both wing and fullback, and he is in a battle for the third outside back spot with Edwill van der Merwe. His youth and maturity, combined with his speed, make him a player to watch. With Mzwandile Stick's coaching expertise in off-the-ball work, Williams has the potential to become a valuable asset to the Springboks.
Carlu Sadie: The Scrum Specialist
With Frans Malherbe's playing career uncertain, Carlu Sadie emerges as a perfect like-for-like backup for Wilco Louw. The Boks have a surplus of tighthead props, but Sadie stands out for his ability to peak at the right time. He has transformed into the cornerstone of the Champions Cup-winning scrum at Bordeaux-Begles. Despite his massive size, Sadie is no slouch around the park and gets stuck in the tight-loose. His beef frame and power align perfectly with the Bok playbook, making him an ideal addition to the squad.
Ruben van Heerden: Grit and Physical Dominance
Ruben van Heerden, who made his first Test appearance against Wales, brings a unique set of skills to the lock forward position. At 28 years old, he is in his prime, offering grit, size, and physical dominance. Van Heerden made 17 tackles and won five line-outs, showcasing his ability to dominate in the scrums. With Jean Kleyn's limited appearances since the 2023 World Cup Final, van Heerden could be the perfect replacement, providing a strong presence in the second row and contributing to the team's success.
In conclusion, these five players offer a blend of skill, versatility, and potential, making them strong candidates for Rassie Erasmus' 2027 RWC squad. Their ability to adapt, their physical attributes, and their impact on the field make them bolters worth considering. As the tournament approaches, Erasmus will need to make some tough decisions, but these players could be the key to another successful Springbok campaign.
