Coach Rassie Erasmus has shaken things up for the Springboks' clash against Italy in Turin this Saturday! The biggest surprise? No Malcolm Marx in the squad – neither starting nor on the bench. This is a rare occurrence for the Boks, as Marx has been a mainstay, showcasing his world-class hooking abilities in nearly every match this year.
Instead, Johan Grobbelaar gets the nod to start. This is a golden opportunity for the Vodacom Bulls No 2 to prove his worth on the international stage. Grobbelaar, who impressed during the Vodacom United Rugby Championship, earning his place back in the Bok setup, will be eager to seize the moment.
Grobbelaar began the Bulls’ URC campaign with a hat-trick of tries against the Ospreys at Loftus and built momentum from there. This is his chance to take that form onto the international stage.
Writing for TimesLIVE, Mark Keohane explains Erasmus's selection reflects ‘reward and trust in the quality of squad players rather than risk.’ Only four starters remain from the epic win over France in Paris, but seven of the famed “super subs” are retained, along with hooker Johan Grobbelaar.
Zach Porthen starts his second Test at tighthead, again the youngest in the professional era, while Wilco Louw’s presence on the bench “is the greatest support crutch” for the 21-year-old.
Another notable change is Marco van Staden's shift to No 8, highlighting Erasmus's appreciation for versatility within the squad. The backline pairing of Ethan Hooker and Canan Moodie is another exciting experiment to watch.
Keohane adds that 'Erasmus has never been shy to reward talent.' He continues, 'For some, this selection may seem risky, but for him it’s a statement of faith in the future – and the squad that can chase a third successive World Cup title.'
Will Grobbelaar shine? Will the new combinations click? All eyes will be on Turin this Saturday!