Mission three-peat is the agenda for Rassie Erasmus, the Springboks and SA Rugby.
Rassie Erasmus has spent years ensuring that the Springboks have depth in every position.
In 2024, more than 50 players played for the Boks. Meanwhile, over ten key players were injured last year. Therefore, there is a crop of 50-60 players currently in contention with SA Rugby depth at an all-time high under Rassie.
So, let’s take a look at the players primed to defend the Springboks Rugby World Cup trophy in 2027.
BIG BOK READ: END OF AN ERA – SIX SPRINGBOKS ENTERING THE LATTER STAGES OF THEIR CAREERS
MISSION THREE-PEAT IS ON THE AGENDA FOR SA RUGBY
The Springboks joined the All Blacks as the only teams to go back-to-back in the Rugby World Cup following their successful title defence in 2023.
However, Erasmus and the Boks want to go one step further.
Mission ‘three-peat’ is the primary focus – the Springboks want to become the first team in history to win three RWC titles in a row. Rassie has tactically masterminded the art of building squad depth with this goal and vision in mind. Currently, the Springboks have two to three quality players in every position capable of starting in the coveted and prestigious green and gold jersey.
So, several players put their hands up in 2024. Ultimately, Rassie will only select players who have been in the Springboks picture and system for a couple of years with some exciting rising stars staking their claim to a spot on the Boks 2027 RWC team.
LIKELY SPRINGBOKS LINE UP FOR 2027 RWC
- Ox Nche
- Bongi Mbonambi/Malcolm Marx
- Wilco Louw
- Eben Etzebeth
- Ruan Nortje
- Siya Kolisi
- Pieter
- Jasper Wiese
- Grant Williams
- Handre Pollard
- Kurt-Lee Arendse
- Andre Esterhuizen
- Jessie Kriel/ Lukhanyo Am
- Cheslin Kolbe
- Damien Willemse
MOVING FORWARD WITH THIS PACK OF FORWARDS
Ox Nche has solidified himself as the new first choice number one (pun intended) at the front of the scrum for the Springboks. Meanwhile, both Mbonambi and Marx are set to continue being rotated at number two. As they have been for several seasons.
Whilst, Malherbe is unlikely to be in the picture as he turns 36/37 in 27. Therefore, Wilco Louw will likely step into the number 3 jersey come the 2027 Rugby World Cup. I foresee, Bok veteran Eben Etzebeth extending his record as the highest-capped Springbok of all time. However, both Mostert and Lood are entering the latter stages of their career so Nortje is being primed to step up.
Furthermore, Erasmus has confirmed that Kolisi will continue to captain the Boks. He should be joined by current World Rugby Player of the Year, Du Toit. At the back of the scrum it Wiese, who has been instrumental to the Boks success, is favoured to wear the number 8 jersey.
BACK TO THE FUTURE FOR THE BOKS BACKLINE
Some of the stars of the past will run out for one final Rugby World Cup in the future.
In a bold call at nine, I am backing Williams to take over from Faf de Klerk and Jaden Hendrikse.
Additionally, Bok veteran Pollard has another Rugby World Cup in him and he will be at the heart of mission three-peat under Erasmus. Both Arendse and Kolbe are expected to continue their exploits on the wing. However, here’s where things get very interesting… both De Allende and Kriel will be well past their prime. De Allende will be 35 and Kriel will be 33. So, one must favour Andre Esterhuizen and Lukhanyo Am in the midfield. Although, Kriel has a better chance than De Allende of maintaining the number 13 jersey.
Whereas, Willemse’s return will see a fascinating battle with Aphelele Fassi for the Bok number 15 jersey.
Willemse was one of the stars if the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Whilst, in his abscense, Fassi wore the Springboks jersey with pride. Shining bright throughout the 2024 season. These are two of the best full backs in World Rugby. So, this is a great headache to have if you’re Erasmus.
WHO DO YOU THINK SHOULD START FOR THE SPRINGBOKS IN THEIR BIG TESTS IN THE 2027 RUGBY WORLD CUP? GIVE US YOUR STARTING XV
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/springboks/springboks-likely-2027-rugby-world-cup-line-up/
