Earlier this year, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus invited a group of 26 players – consisting mainly of overseas-based players – to a virtual alignment camp in preparation for the season ahead.
There were no major surprises among the players included, but circumstances have changed somewhat since then.
At the time, it was known that Elrigh Louw would not be available this year as he recovers from a serious leg injury, but in another blow, Jasper Wiese has also been ruled out due to a serious neck injury.
It will most likely to lead to an opportunity for youngsters such as Ruan Venter and Cameron Hanekom, but there are undoubtedly a couple of overseas players who cannot be ruled out.
Could Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus consider these ‘bolters’?
A forgotten man is former South Africa A loose forward Ruan Ackermann, who has become something of a club legend at Gloucester ever since leaving the Lions in 2017 after a memorable time in Johannesburg.
He has consistently been overlooked by England despite after becoming eligible, but he remains available for Springbok selection, which is something the versatile loose forward has repeatedly said would still interest him.
At the age of 29, Ackermann certainly has plenty of experience on his side, and perhaps he is now finally due for a national call up so that the Springbok coaches can have a closer look at what he could offer.
Meanwhile, ever since Juarno Augustus scored the most tries (7) at the World Rugby Under-20 Championship in 2017, earning him the Player of the Tournament title, he has been viewed as a future Springbok.
His form and fitness has been rather erratic over the last few years, but that has changed quite dramatically after a move overseas where he has truly revived his career at the Northampton Saints.
Augustus has now just moved to Ulster, and as he begins this new chapter, it could be the perfect time for him to also show what he could do with the Springboks.
Similarly, another dymamic forward Nicolaas Janse van Rensburg – who earned one Springbok cap in 2021 – has also been on the national radar for quite some time, without receiving an extended run.
Having banked tons of experience with French club Montpellier, the 30-year-old could be perfectly placed to receive some meaningful game-time this season.
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ARE THERE ANY OTHER PLAYERS THE BOKS SHOULD CONSIDER?
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Src: TheSouthAfrican.com - https://rugga.co.za/springboks/three-selection-bolters-springboks-could-consider/
