Lions assistant coach Barend Pieterse has praised locks Ruben van Heerden and Ruan Nortje, highlighting the depth they add to the No 5 options for the Springboks.
Nortje, recently included in Rassie Erasmus’ Bok squad for the 2024 Rugby Championship Tests in Australia, has emerged as a potential long-term candidate for the world champions’ No 5 lock position.
With key incumbents Franco Mostert and Lood de Jager sidelined due to injuries, the Vodacom Bulls skipper faces a challenging but promising opportunity in the Bok setup. Despite stiff competition domestically and within the team, Nortje has earned the confidence of Erasmus.
Van Heerden earned his first Bok alignment camp invitation in March, following several standout performances for the DHL Stormers over the past two seasons. Traditionally a No 4 lock, he has adapted to calling the lineout, solidifying his role in the tight five.
MORE: Boks feeling upbeat Down Under
Pieterse commended both players for their exceptional set-piece skills and immense work rate around the park. “What you get from Ruben and Ruan are excellent set pieces,” Pieterse told News24. “Their work rate is immense, and that’s the next important bit after set-piece excellence.”
Pieterse emphasised Nortje’s leadership and consistent performance. “Ruan runs the set-piece well and he’s a very good leader. His work rate around the park is exceptional,” Pieterse said. “He always gets momentum in his ball carries, he’s a classy player.”
He also praised Van Heerden’s dedication to improving his lineout skills: “With the way he [Van Heerden] speaks, you can hear he’s a lineout student and always wants to get better. Him and Ruan will be around, and from a depth perspective, we are lucky in that regard.”
Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images
The post SA skyscrapers’ Bok stocks on the rise appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Src: sarugbymag.co.za
