The Springboks are facing a significant challenge as they prepare to wrap up their November tour, with a depleted squad heading to Wales. Rassie Erasmus, the South African head coach, is anticipating traveling with a squad of only 24 or 25 players for the match in Cardiff next Saturday.
Their tour has already seen them triumph over Japan, France, Italy, and Ireland. However, the upcoming game against Wales falls outside the World Rugby player release window. This means the team will be without several key players due to club commitments.
For instance, starting props like Thomas du Toit and Boan Venter, instrumental in their recent victory, must return to their respective clubs in England and Scotland. This situation presents a real juggling act for Erasmus, who admitted he wasn't fully on top of his squad's availability when questioned after the Dublin game, even momentarily forgetting some players' names.
Further complicating matters, some players will be unavailable due to the start of the Japanese club season. The head coach had to consider release requests, especially since the Japanese clubs had assisted South Africa earlier in the month when the November 1 match was played before the three-week player release window.
When asked about the number of absentees for the Wales game, Erasmus revealed, "Quite a few." He mentioned that players from the Premiership and URC, such as Thomas, Boan, RG Snyman, and Edwill van der Merwe, would be unavailable. Kurt-Lee Arendse is also out due to concussion, and Aphelele Fassie is also unavailable. Grant Williams is returning to the Sharks.
Erasmus stated that the team would only train with 25 players the following week. He also noted that several players would need to return to Japan. Jesse Kriel is unavailable, and some Japanese clubs requested their players back. He estimated that around 14 or 15 players currently with the team would not be available for the Wales match.
Manie Libbok is also heading back to Japan. As a result, Erasmus anticipates a significantly reduced squad for the Wales game.
But here's where it gets controversial... This lack of player availability could give Wales an advantage. However, even if Wales were to cause an upset, it wouldn't threaten South Africa's position as the world's top-ranked team. Erasmus mentioned that a loss in Cardiff could potentially cost the Springboks two places in the rankings.
Erasmus modestly stated that their aim this year was to finish in the top four. He also pointed out that they've used 50 players this year, and next year might see even more experimentation. The World Cup draw is on December 7, and being outside the top six could put them in a challenging pool. Their primary goal was to secure a top-four ranking.
Erasmus also acknowledged that they've lost two matches this year and two last year, indicating areas for improvement. He noted the absence of key players due to injury and the need to integrate younger players. He concluded that while they are improving in player rotation, there is still much work to be done to maintain their top position.
What do you think? Do you believe the player release window rules are fair? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
