Springbok flanker Paul de Villiers put in a shift during the Nations Championship. The Stormers loose-forward announced himself on the Test stage with a series of standout performances in the absence of Siya Kolisi. Photo: Backpagepix
The race for places in the Springboks' squad for Rugby Greatest Rivalry against New Zealand has entered a decisive phase this week, as Rassie Erasmus assembled a 43-man squad in Johannesburg to begin preparations for next month's Test against Argentina.
While the Bok coach welcomed back 10 experienced campaigners from injury, he also confirmed plans to split the squad over the next fortnight, ensuring every player has an opportunity to stake a claim before attention shifts to the blockbuster clashes against the All Blacks.
With Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Handré Pollard and André Esterhuizen all back in contention, competition for places has never been fiercer. Here are five players with the most to gain over the coming fortnight.
Few players have enhanced their reputation more during the July internationals than De Villiers. The Stormers flanker has looked every bit a Test player with his relentless work rate, breakdown excellence and defensive intensity.
