How much does the Currie Cup need these Springboks?
Allister Coetzee has sent six members of his squad back to do provincial duty. But in how many cases is that justified?
Dillyn Leyds is one man the Lions will need to cage. Photo: Carl Fourie/Gallo Images.
In the aftermath of the last weekend’s nasty 57-0 loss to the All Blacks, the Springboks management have decided to release certain players for Currie Cup action this week.
Typically, the reaction to these troops being sent on provincial duty has been mixed.
Also read: This weekend’s talking points from the Currie Cup
In some instances, it’s a necessity but others will make one wonder why was the guy picked in the first place.
We judge the importance of the respective Springboks playing this weekend.
Dillyn Leyds (Western Province)
It’s more than likely that Raymond Rhule’s poor tackling will mean that the Springboks will replace him with the 25-year-old from Somerset West for (at least) the home Test against Australia.
Another criticism of South Africa’s backline is that it lacks so-called X-factor players.
Leyds showed with some weaving runs and brilliant passes in Super Rugby that he’s a man that could bring a more unpredictable element to the Springboks’ attack.
VERDICT: It’s hugely important that he starts against Griquas to gain match fitness.
Handre Pollard (Blue Bulls)
A few weeks back, coach Allister Coetzee said the gifted but injury-prone flyhalf would gain more from staying in the national camp than going to play Currie Cup.
That sentiment has changed after he looked rusty in Albany.
Pollard needs the confidence of at least 60 minutes on the field and the Sharks are ideal, strong opposition.
VERDICT: National interest dictates he should play but it could disrupt the Bulls.
Wilco Louw (Western Province)
With Coenie Oosthuizen out for the rest of the campaign and Ruan Dreyer experiencing a nightmare against the All Blacks, the promising 23-year-old tighthead suddenly becomes an important man in the Springboks squad.
The No 3 jersey is a problem for Coetzee and co and the fact that no one seems to take their chances by the scruff of the neck, the former Junior Springbok could easily find himself on the bench.
In the “easier” environment of a home Test, Louw might even be a starting option if the coaching staff want Trevor Nyakane to stay an impact player.
VERDICT: A good workout against a gritty Griquas front row would hardly be a bad thing.
Damian de Allende (Western Province)
Exactly what the sturdy centre’s role in the Springboks setup is remains a bit unclear.
He supposedly can cover the midfield and wing but he hasn’t really been trusted with sufficient game-time.
It seems unlikely De Allende will dislodge Jan Serfontein and Jesse Kriel in the starting XV but some match fitness wouldn’t do any harm.
VERDICT: Province were so poor last week that De Allende perhaps deserves even a starting spot.
Dan du Preez (Sharks)
Interesting one this.
You can’t really foresee the Springboks changing their starting loose trio but then again, the No 8 jersey is still up for grabs until Warren Whiteley returns.
Du Preez very much seems to be the baby of the group of flankers, who’s rather there to learn than play.
But stranger things have happened…
VERDICT: Dad (Sharks coach Robert) will probably have him on bench duty.
Chiliboy Ralepelle (Sharks)
He’s carrying tackle bags and will probably continue carrying them for the next three weeks unless one of his teammates get injured.
VERDICT: If he’s selected, it will be because it’ll benefit the Sharks and not the Springboks.
