Willemse carries fullback burden

WHEN head coach Rassie Erasmus unveiled his Springbok squad for the Year-end Tests, apart from the omission of some senior players and talented rookies, one selection detail stood out: Damian Willemse is the only recognised fullback in the touring group.

- LEIGHTON KOOPMAN

While this is not uncharted territory for the Boks - selecting only one specialist in a key position - given the physical and tactical demands of the northern hemisphere, the decision to travel with only one out-and-out fullback poses some interesting questions.

Willemse’s quality and versatility are beyond debate, though, and it is a bold selection. The 27-year-old has been one of the trademarks of the Bok backline since stepping into the World Cup fray in 2019 and playing a more prominent role since 2022. He's been shifting seamlessly between fullback, flyhalf and inside centre when needed.

His brilliance under the high ball, on defence and attack, trusted kicking boot and counterattacking ability make him a natural fit for the No 15 jersey. However, relying on him as the sole specialist in a five-Test tour is a risk.