Five big Springbok selection calls facing Rassie Erasmus ahead of England Test

Following a satisfying end to his URC campaign with the Bulls, the Springboks could opt for Ruan Nortjé to partner Eben Etzebeth against England in the second row.

The first Springbok Test squad for Saturday’s Nations Championship clash against England at Ellis Park is expected to be named by head coach Rassie Erasmus on Tuesday, but those within the Bok camp will likely already have a good idea of the matchday 23 by Sunday.

While several positions virtually pick themselves, there are a handful where Erasmus and his coaching team face genuine selection dilemmas. In each case, the decision will come down to the game plan they want to play on the day against one of the world’s most physical sides.

We take a look at five of the biggest selection calls the Springboks must make.

For Springbok supporters, this is arguably the biggest debate heading into the Test.

Handré Pollard remains a proven big-match winner, but his form over the last couple of matches has raised a few questions. However, against an England side that thrives on pressure and territory, his kicking consistency remains invaluable.

Manie Libbok, meanwhile, offers a completely different attacking dimension. His ability to play flat, challenge defensive lines, find the wings with pinpoint kicks and create attacking opportunities could be the key to unsettling England’s defence, particularly on the Highveld, where the game is expected to be played at a high tempo.

The decision will ultimately come down to whether the Springboks opt for an expansive attacking game plan or prefer to control proceedings against the visitors.

Grant Williams has all but cemented his place after another outstanding performance against the Barbarians last weekend, but the race for the second scrumhalf spot is far less straightforward.

Cobus Reinach has consistently been one of South Africa’s best No 9s, yet he is returning from injury and has not had any meaningful game time ahead of the encounter. That could open the door for either Herschel Jantjies or Embrose Papier to get the nod.

Papier’s sharp service and running threat have impressed this season, while Jantjies brings valuable Test experience and composure. If Reinach is not deemed fully match-fit, Erasmus has a genuine decision to make over who will provide cover behind Williams.

Few players are guaranteed a starting berth like Eben Etzebeth, but deciding who packs down alongside him is another matter entirely.

Lood de Jager has returned to fitness and, when the Japan-based lineout caller is fully fit, remains one of the world’s premier second rows thanks to his expertise in the lineout and work rate around the park.

Then there is exciting youngster Riley Norton, who has impressed throughout the season with his athleticism and physicality. Throwing him into a Test against England would be a gamble, but one that could pay dividends as the Boks continue building depth ahead of the next World Cup in Australia.

Bulls lineout caller Ruan Nortjé is the other secure option for the world champions ahead of this duel.

This is perhaps the toughest call in the forward pack.

Wilco Louw has enjoyed arguably the best season of his career with the Bulls, establishing himself as one of the country’s dominant scrummagers while making a major impact around the field with his powerful carries.

Bath prop Thomas du Toit, meanwhile, offers versatility and a proven pedigree after taking on the best England had to offer in the Premiership. He has also consistently delivered whenever called upon in the green and gold.

If Erasmus wants to emphasise total scrum dominance, Louw may get the nod. If versatility and overall impact are prioritised, Du Toit remains an exceptionally strong option.

Damian de Allende has been the Springboks’ first-choice No 12 for years and remains one of the most complete midfielders in world rugby. His defensive organisation, physical ball-carrying and understanding with Jesse Kriel make him the safe selection for the England Test.

Yet André Esterhuizen has once again produced outstanding performances for the Sharks and most recently against the Baabaas in Gqeberha. His ability to consistently win the gainline and offload through contact offers a different dimension that could trouble England's midfield.

It is a classic selection dilemma between the proven continuity of De Allende and rewarding the outstanding form Esterhuizen is in — one that could have a significant influence on how the world champions approach one of their biggest Tests of the year.