With Rassie Erasmus back in charge as head coach, the Springboks will have high expectations as they return to competition as world champions in just over two months.
In terms of just some of the highlights to look forward to, there's a two-Test series against Ireland in July, followed by what should be a blockbuster Rugby Championship, followed by a challenging year-end tour. It is done.
Rassie Erasmus will have to make some important decisions as Springbok coach
The best way to balance youth and experience
Erasmus has said he is brave to support young talent, and there are a number of new faces expected to be introduced into Test action this year.
“Building the team, testing players, giving players opportunities, always trying to improve the depth of the team, changing the way we do things, always trying to stay up to date… We have to try,” he said earlier this year.
While this is an important factor in building depth in the squad, the Springbok manager said he will ensure he integrates players at the right time while keeping a core of World Cup winners around him. will face big challenges.
large selection call
Now that Duane Vermeulen has retired, who should start at number eight? What about at scrum-half, given that Faf de Klerk is now 32 and Kobus Reinach 34? As for the outside center position, choosing between Jesse Kriel and Lukanyo Am is another headache.
These are things the Springbok coaching staff will have to do, not to mention decide how best to deploy rising stars such as Cameron Hanekom, Sacha Feinberg-Mgomezulu and Suleiman Hartzenberg. It's just one part of a big decision.
It will be crucial for the Springboks to add depth to their squad this year, especially given that some of the 2023 World Cup winners will be past their prime by 2027.
captain sea call
Siya Kolisi, now 32, will undoubtedly need to manage his game time very carefully over the next four-year cycle, whether he retains the captain's armband or not.
Perhaps Erasmus will continue to support Kolisi as captain, even if he is based overseas, but some shared leadership will be needed.
Bongi Mbonambi is considered the 'unofficial' vice-captain, but the likes of Eben Etzebeth, Handre Pollard and even Deon Fourie have captained the Springboks in the past.
If Kolisi is absent or needs rest, Erasmus will need to put full trust in his acting captains to continue leading the Springboks in the right direction.
