Rassie Erasmus says that while Evan Roos isn’t out of his plans, the Springboks want to give Elrigh Louw a crack at No 8 in the Rugby Championship.
Roos, who started in the Test against Portugal, was left out of the 33-player squad that will depart for Australia on Wednesday for two Tests against the Wallabies to open the tournament.
With Jasper Wiese still suspended, Louw is the frontrunner to take over the duties at the back of the scrum.
The 24-year-old earned his fourth cap off the bench in Bloemfontein, but could make his first Test start in the Brisbane opener.
Another option to complete the back row is Kwagga Smith – used primarily as an impact player, he started in both July Tests against Ireland.
“We’ve got two full loose trios,” Erasmus explained. “We’ve got Marco [van Staden] and Siya [Kolisi] who can play six, Pieter-Steph [du Toit] and Ben-Jason [Dixon] who can play seven, and Kwagga and Elrigh who can play at eight. Elrigh can also play at seven. Pieter-Steph won’t be used at eight.
“Evan definitely isn’t out of the mix. Before the Portugal Test, we told the guys that they are getting a chance and to go express themselves, put up your hand and show us that there are a few new dogs in the neighbourhood, lift your leg and make a mark.
“A few guys certainly did that. We also want to give Elrigh experience against the big nations. He was always part of our plans. His form took a dip, he will admit that himself.
“We know what Evan can do. Evan hasn’t been thrown away. We still have nine Test matches this year. It’s about building squad depth. Evan certainly didn’t have bad games. He is comfortable in this setup.
“Now we can see, if Elrigh gets his chance, what he can do.”
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