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2w ago

Erasmus Sets Flexible Springbok Plan and Flags Pollock Threat for Ellis Park

The coach says South Africa will use the Nations Championship to build squad depth rather than chase bonus points.

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Rugby Union - Premiership Final - Northampton Saints v Exeter Chiefs - Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, Britain - June 20, 2026 Northampton Saints' Henry Pollock celebrates after winning the Rugby Union Premiership Final and being awarded with the man of the match medal Action Images via Reuters/Cat Goryn
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA - JULY 29: Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert and Eben Etzebeth during the South African national men's rugby team training session at Johannesburg Stadium on July 29, 2025 in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Photo by Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images)
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Overview

  • On Tuesday, June 23, Erasmus confirmed a 46‑man Nations Championship squad but said the group will change regularly with players sent away for rest and others drafted in after the England Test.
  • He said the Springboks will treat each Test as a standalone match and prioritise winning over pursuing bonus points in the new league-format Nations Championship.
  • Erasmus praised England back-row Henry Pollock as an exceptional on-field performer and compared his impact to Siya Kolisi, warning the Boks must find ways to contain him.
  • Lock Lood de Jager is described as touch-and-go for the Ellis Park opener and Franco Mostert is being monitored for an ankle issue, leaving final selections dependent on late fitness checks.
  • South African Rugby will use the July window to test fringe players, protect experienced campaigners and shape a wider pool ahead of the 2027 World Cup.