Rassie Erasmus says the Hendrikse brothers’ selection as the Springboks’ halfback pairing against Wales is about performance, not sentimentality.
Erasmus has named Jaden and Jordan Hendrikse as the Springboks’ halfback pairing for Saturday’s clash against Wales in Cardiff, marking the third different combination trialed on this end-of-year tour.
The selection sees the siblings becoming the 36th set of Springbok brothers, a historic moment steeped in sentiment, though Erasmus remains firmly focused on results.
The Hendrikses, both Glenwood High School alumni from King Williams Town, will start at scrumhalf and flyhalf in front of a packed Principality Stadium.
Jaden, 24, has become a mainstay in the Springbok squad and will earn his 20th cap, while 23-year-old Jordan makes his first start since his Test debut against Wales at Twickenham in June.
Reflecting on the decision, Erasmus said the brothers had earned the opportunity through their performances and highlighted the depth within the Springbok squad.
“Hopefully, it will go well for them,” Erasmus commented. “They deserve this chance. We’ve been chopping and changing and testing different combinations.
“We could have played Cobus [Reinach], and we have guys like Herschel Jantjies and Morne van den Berg back home, but fortunately, it worked out for the two brothers.
“We’re glad for them. The family thing is a warm and fuzzy feeling, but the performance is very important.”
Erasmus noted the contrasting attributes that Jordan brings to the flyhalf position compared to Manie Libbok, who impressed during his 45 minutes against England.
“He is certainly a guy that brings something different to the party. He’s got a big boot, and he’s a more physical flyhalf,” said Erasmus.
“There is Siya Masuku who hasn’t even got a look into the team, Sacha [Feinberg-Mngomezulu] is back home, Damian [Willemse] is back home.
“It’s nice. He’s come through our ranks, and sometimes I just believe when two brothers are playing together, it’s the right time to give them a chance if they deserve it.”
With Handre Pollard providing cover from the bench, Jordan has the chance to showcase his own strengths, including his robust defensive play and booming kicking game.
“Overall, he’s physical and big. He maybe doesn’t have the fine skills that a guy like Manie has, but he can certainly kick the ball a mile and he stands his ground in his channel,” said Erasmus.
“I think very few guys are up there with Manie when it comes to handling skills, but let’s see, maybe he surprises us with that on Saturday.”
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
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Src: sarugbymag.co.za
