Meyer – tough to change Bok centre pairing
De Villiers returns to the starting XV at outside centre – which sees upcoming youngster Jesse Kriel shift out to the wing after two very successful starts at 13 in the past two matches.
Meanwhile, Damian de Allende retains his spot at inside centre after strong showings in the Bok midfield.
The change to the midfield came as a slight surprise after De Allende and Kriel had impressed in the first two matches of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship. With just a handful of caps underneath their belts, many pundits assumed they would get another game together as a centre pairing.
However, Meyer seems anxious to give De Villiers as much game time as possible ahead of the World Cup to bring him to full match fitness. The Bok coach also believes his experience will be crucial in what is fast becoming a must-win game in Durban with just over a month to go before the global showpiece kicks-off in England.
“It was a very difficult decision – every one gets more difficult. There were a few factors but I thought they were brilliant as a combination especially with Handre. But Jean has been great for us and it’s not just what he adds on the field,” Meyer explained.
“He’s been the SA rugby player of year in 2013 and it’s about what he brings with him. Jesse and Damian, we want to give them as much game time as possible. Believe it or not, Damian’s only played four Tests and Jesse’s played two (and a friendly against the World XV). We need to give Jesse more game time before the World Cup, he’s a dark horse and you don’t want to take him into the World Cup where there are seven games and he’s on three – that’s a lot more pressure,” Meyer added.
Meyer had considered reintroducing De Villiers from the bench, but erred on the side of caution.
“There was a question of bringing him from the bench but it’s better to start a player like that to see where he is. I don’t want to bring a guy from the bench and then there is an injury and then you don’t have enough players.”
De Allende was also considered on the wing, but Meyer opted to put Kriel out wide in anticipation of an aerial assault from Argentina this weekend. Kriel played fullback for the Bulls during the Super Rugby competition, and proved to be a lethal threat on the counter attack while being reliable under the high-ball.
Another contributing factor was De Villiers expect knowledge of defending the outside channels.
“The great thing about Jean at 13, defensively we haven’t been that astute at 10, 12 and 13 so he beefs up the defence. You also want to bring your captain in, there are only two games left and we have to show he is right for the World Cup,” Meyer said. “You also want to keep on improving Damian and Jesse – I felt they are doing well and we have to keep some continuity going forward.”
The Boks face Argentina at Growthpoint Kings Park on Saturday. Kickoff is at 17h05.
Twitter - @gazza_jenks @ECRSportswave @SportswaveAndre
Facebook - ECRSportswave