Natal Sharks utility back JP Pietersen will make his Test debut for South Africa in the Tri-Nations match against Australia in Johannesburg on Saturday.
The 20-year-old was at fullback throughout the Springboks’ training session on Tuesday and coach Jake White said the time was now right to give some of the up-and-coming talent in his squad a chance.
”Pierre Spies showed last weekend that he can play at the highest level and there are some other youngsters in the squad who have done well in training and deserve a chance to show what they can do,” White told reporters.
”Bringing these young players into the set-up has been a step forward for us this season.”
White confirmed that wing Bryan Habana had been ruled out of the final Tri-Nations fixture with concussion and there will be a reshuffling of the backline for Saturday’s Test.
Jaque Fourie, who moved to fullback for the 21-20 win over New Zealand last weekend in Rustenburg, looks set to resume his successful midfield partnership with Jean de Villiers, with Wynand Olivier, who played outside centre against the All Blacks, likely to replace Habana on the wing.
”If you look at the way backlines are now, one of the secrets of world rugby is that it doesn’t matter what number you’re wearing, on attack you must be able to pop up anywhere,” the Springbok coach said.
While the South Africa backline at times threatened to catch ablaze against the All Blacks, White said Saturday’s Test would be decided by the forwards.
”Tight fives win games, it’s always been the case, since rugby started. I’m sure the Australians appreciate that and they know it’s no use having quality backs if you’re not going to give quality ball to them,” he said.
”They have the most experienced backline in world rugby and we can’t just give them the ball. We know what happens if George Gregan gets the ball going forward and Stephen Larkham can run on to it.”
Australia beat South Africa 20-18 in Sydney on August 5. — Reuters