Sharks flyhalf Butch James was Monday on his way to join a battered Springbok squad as national coach Jake White scrambled to avoid a another drubbing, this time against the mighty All Blacks.
South Africa were crushed 49-0 in a record score by a rampant Australia on Saturday, prompting calls in South Africa for White’s resignation.
Compounding the Springboks’ woes, lock Danie Rossouw is on his way back to home after injuring his left hamstring, the South African Press Association reported.
White’s season so far has been characterised by injuries to key players, including the hard-working loose forward Schalk Burger and first-choice lock Bakkies Botha.
With Rossouw, who has proved himself in the absence of Botha, also out, White’s choices are limited to use his pack to its full advantage — a major component of the Springboks’ play.
Bok selector Peter Jooste said, however, they opted to replace Rossouw with James, given the need for more experienced players in the backline.
”We have enough players to cover for Rossouw’s position in the forwards,” said Jooste.
”James will be good replacement as he will add the experience factor and utility in the backline.” — AFP
