Springboks Recall Veteran: Will He Save the NZ Series?
JOHANNESBURG — Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has officially recalled veteran utility forward Deon Fourie to the national squad ahead of the highly anticipated Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series against New Zealand. The 39-year-old makes his return to the international setup following a significant period on the sidelines due to injury.
Fourie, who provides critical cover as both a loose forward and a hooker, is scheduled to join his teammates in Johannesburg on Tuesday. His return to the squad is timely, as his last appearance for the Springboks was during the historic 2023 Rugby World Cup Final victory against the All Blacks in Paris.
The veteran’s fitness was recently tested when he featured for the Stormers in a clash against the All Blacks in Cape Town on Friday evening. His performance in that fixture appears to have convinced the national coaching staff that he is ready for the rigours of test match rugby once again.
The call-up comes at a sensitive time for the world champions. Captain Siya Kolisi is currently considered a doubt for the opening test match on 22 August. Kolisi sustained a hamstring injury during Saturday’s encounter against Argentina in Buenos Aires, leaving a potential leadership and tactical void in the pack.
Fourie’s inclusion adds much-needed experience and versatility to the roster as the team prepares for one of the most physical challenges in world rugby. His ability to compete at the breakdown and slot into the front row if required gives Erasmus significant tactical flexibility.
Public interest in the squad selection remains high as South Africa looks to maintain its dominance over their traditional rivals. The availability of seasoned campaigners like Fourie is seen as a stabilizing factor for a squad dealing with the physical toll of a demanding international season.
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