Forwards coach Deon Davids says the Springboks’ depth at lock remains a talking point.
The back-to-back world champions boast a formidable group of hardened second-rowers which is the envy of most nations, but Davids admitted on Monday that the position is closely monitored as the Boks build towards the 2027 World Cup.
“Obviously we know where all our locks are playing, but it becomes a concern for us every year when we sit in this conference,” Davids said. “At the start of the season there always seems to be an issue with locks, whether it’s injuries or availability.”
Despite those challenges, Davids believes the national set-up continues to identify promising talent coming through the system.
“It’s good to have the opportunity to see what’s happening with the younger players coming through,” he said. “There is some talent there that is doing well. We always try to look as far ahead as possible in terms of the availability and versatility of our locks.”
The Bok brains trust has previously pointed to the disruption of lockdown for disrupting the junior pipeline of talent, particularly at lock.
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While the Springboks can still rely on grizzled campaigners such as Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert and RG Snyman, the reality is all of them are the wrong side of 30 and most have huge mileage on the clock.
The Bok coaching staff are mindful of the need to develop the next generation and also to cast the net wider. The Boks are reportedly looking at JJ van der Mescht, the 27-year-old former Junior Springbok who currently plays for the Northampton Saints.
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Coach Rassie Erasmus in January pointed to the ageing profile of the position as a potential concern and the heavy workload many of the veterans have carried over the years.
However, Davids believes versatility within the squad helps ease that immediate pressure.
“A guy like RG can play both No 4 and No 5. That flexibility helps when you’re managing injuries or looking at different combinations.”
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At the same time, slightly younger players such as Salmaan Moerat and Ruan Nortje, 28 and 27 respectively, have begun taking on greater responsibility in the Bok environment.
“It’s good to know that even with some injury concerns we have a balance of players who can do the job,” he said. “But it’s something we will continue to monitor closely as we build towards the Test season and beyond.”
The Boks will play a non-cap Barbarians match and 13 Tests this season, including the new Nations Championship and the four-Test Greatest Rivalry Series against the All Blacks.
Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
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