Duane’s fate explains why the Springboks are wary of recent form

If you want to know why Allister Coetzee isn’t picking more established stars that are playing overseas for the Springboks, ask him about Duane Vermeulen.

There was a school of thought earlier this week that the experienced 31-year-old eighthman, who plays for Toulon in France, would’ve been an ideal option to replace the injured Jean-Luc du Preez.

But that wasn’t going to happen.

“He only returned to competitive action last week (from the bench),” said the national coach.

“I’m not sure how much playing time he got but if I showed you our training stats, you wouldn’t be asking me about Duane.”

The point that Coetzee’s trying to make is that if he were to select the veteran, he wouldn’t be able to keep up with the rest.

That’s, apparently, how well conditioned the Springboks have become.

“I wish I could’ve shown you our GPS stats,” he said.

“The total distance we cover at training is quite something. Our players are currently covering between 5 and 8 kms per training session. That’s well over 100m per minute.

“I’m so pleased with our conditioning. Last year this time, only two players in our group could pass a fitness test. This year, the whole squad is in peak shape. It’s not going to be easy to come from club rugby and step into our mix, especially with the way we train.”

Conditioning has indeed be a central focus for the Springboks.

Last year’s national indaba established a countrywide framework in this regard, while the national training camps were also a way of getting replacements “ready for international rugby within a week”.

Now, no one will complain over a fitter group of players but it doesn’t quite address the issue of whether that player is the best player in his position.

Some would argue a fresh Vermeulen might be a better bet to take on Ireland next Saturday than Uzair Cassiem, for example.

Fitness can’t buy a player the strength and class of a Vermeulen.

Nonetheless, the Springboks can’t be accused of not backing their strategy.

“Fitter players get injured less and less injuries mean more continuity,” said Coetzee.

“Continuity means you have a better chance of getting positive results and achieving success.”

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