Vincent Tshituka turned heads with his powerhouse performance against the Barbarians, securing a Test debut that has Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus singing his praises. Donning the No 7 jersey, Tshituka joins a veteran-laden Springbok squad aiming to dominate at Loftus Versfeld. With Siya Kolisi sidelined, Jesse Kriel will continue as captain, while Handré Pollard and Damian Willemse are set to dazzle in key backline roles.
Erasmus is not taking any chances for the upcoming face-off with Italy, fielding a squad brimming with seasoned players. "This is our first proper Test of the year, and we need to hit the ground running. Italy might bring a few surprises, so we’re starting strong," Erasmus explained. Next week's lineup might see some rotation, with plans to give newer faces a run against Italy in Gqeberha and Georgia in Nelspruit.
"Vincent was outstanding. His effort went beyond scoring tries; his work rate was phenomenal for a blindside flank,"
Erasmus remarked, hinting at a bright international future for Tshituka.
As for the flyhalf role, Pollard is back in the saddle, part of a broader strategy to manage player rotations smoothly. "Handré has been clutch for us many times. We’re looking at giving him, Sacha, and Manie ample game time over these matches, then reassess before the Rugby Championship," said Erasmus.
"Jesse has always been a leader. His ability to manage the game, especially under challenging conditions like last week's rain, proves he’s the right man to lead,"
Erasmus continued, affirming Kriel's role as captain in Kolisi’s absence.
Italy, now under the stewardship of Gonzalo Quesada, has honed a structured and physical game that demands respect. Erasmus recalled the nerve-wracking encounters, including their narrow escape in the 2019 World Cup, acknowledging the Azzurri's evolution from a flamboyant to a more strategic force in international rugby.
With an intense season ahead, the Boks are meticulously planning each match, ensuring their top players are primed but not overplayed. "No player is set to feature in more than eight or nine matches," Erasmus noted, prioritizing player well-being as they gear up for another grueling but hopefully triumphant rugby year.
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Vincent Tshituka turned heads with his powerhouse performance against the Barbarians, securing a Test debut that has Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus singing his praises. Donning the No 7 jersey, Tshituka joins a veteran-laden Springbok squad aiming to dominate at Loftus Versfeld. With Siya Kolisi sidelined, Jesse Kriel will continue as captain, while Handré Pollard and Damian Willemse are set to dazzle in key backline roles.
Erasmus is not taking any chances for the upcoming face-off with Italy, fielding a squad brimming with seasoned players. "This is our first proper Test of the year, and we need to hit the ground running. Italy might bring a few surprises, so we’re starting strong," Erasmus explained. Next week's lineup might see some rotation, with plans to give newer faces a run against Italy in Gqeberha and Georgia in Nelspruit.
"Vincent was outstanding. His effort went beyond scoring tries; his work rate was phenomenal for a blindside flank,"
Erasmus remarked, hinting at a bright international future for Tshituka.As for the flyhalf role, Pollard is back in the saddle, part of a broader strategy to manage player rotations smoothly. "Handré has been clutch for us many times. We’re looking at giving him, Sacha, and Manie ample game time over these matches, then reassess before the Rugby Championship," said Erasmus.
"Jesse has always been a leader. His ability to manage the game, especially under challenging conditions like last week's rain, proves he’s the right man to lead,"
Erasmus continued, affirming Kriel's role as captain in Kolisi’s absence.Italy, now under the stewardship of Gonzalo Quesada, has honed a structured and physical game that demands respect. Erasmus recalled the nerve-wracking encounters, including their narrow escape in the 2019 World Cup, acknowledging the Azzurri's evolution from a flamboyant to a more strategic force in international rugby.
With an intense season ahead, the Boks are meticulously planning each match, ensuring their top players are primed but not overplayed. "No player is set to feature in more than eight or nine matches," Erasmus noted, prioritizing player well-being as they gear up for another grueling but hopefully triumphant rugby year.