With more regular game time, Bulls flyer Cheswill Jooste could force his way into the Springbok conversation.
Image: Backpagepix
The United Rugby Championship (URC) resumes next weekend, with all four South African franchises still firmly in the hunt for play-off places.
While the primary focus will be on securing a full house in the Top 8, the next four rounds also present a valuable, perhaps final, opportunity for fringe players to force their way into the Springbok conversation. A handful of players could yet influence the Bok selectors ahead of the international season if they continue to impress for their respective sides.
Here, we take a look at five uncapped players knocking loudly on the Springbok door, each with a chance to strengthen their case over the coming weeks.
There may be a long queue of scrumhalves in the current Bok pecking order, but the emergence of younger talent should bring Pead into consideration — particularly with fixtures like the Barbarians clash and the Nations Championship Tests on the horizon.
It would make sense to integrate him sooner rather than later, given his potential to be a breakout figure in the mould of Herschel Jantjies in 2019. It’s also time for the Lions to show faith in him. As they battle to hold onto fifth place and secure a knockout spot, Pead’s role alongside Bok scrum-half Morné van den Berg gives them real depth in the position.
Initially earmarked for the Junior Springboks ahead of the Under-20 Rugby Championship, Jooste instead finds himself travelling through Europe with the Bulls as they fight to stay alive in the URC. Now is the time for the franchise to back him fully rather than treating him as a developmental option.
The electric winger has already offered glimpses of his attacking threat, whether exploiting space or seizing half-chances. However, consistent selection is key. Being rotated in and out of the side will only hinder his progress and diminish his chances of pushing for senior honours ahead of the international season.
With RG Snyman sidelined through injury, debate has intensified around who should fill that versatile lock role. JD Schickerling has quietly been delivering consistent performances for the Stormers, yet has received little recognition this season.
He possesses many of the attributes associated with Snyman, particularly his lineout ability, which stands up well in comparison. With several matches still to play — potentially including the playoffs — Schickerling has ample opportunity to press his claim. Despite being overlooked, he continues to put in the hard graft for the Cape side.
With Jasper Wiese firmly established, the No 8 position in the Springbok setup appears largely settled, but without the necessary depth. Horn has elevated his game, though, and is making a strong case for inclusion with his leadership.
More than just a traditional, hard-working eighthman, Horn brings dynamism in attack. He relishes carrying the ball, identifies space effectively, and injects momentum into the Lions’ play.
Ironically, that attacking instinct may count against him in a system that often favours a more conventional role. Still, as the URC reaches a crucial stage, continued performances may sway heads.
Not currently the first-choice outside-centre in Durban, Julius faces a challenge to break into the Springbok frame ahead of June. However, opportunities may still arise, particularly as the Sharks push for a Top 8 finish.
As the only South African side currently outside the playoff spots, injuries or changes in form could open the door. Julius has already shown he can step up when required, and there’s little doubt he will seize any opportunity to make an impression on the Bok selectors.