Fresh-looking Bok backline faces huge examination in Wellington

IN A door-die Rugby Championship clash, Rassie Erasmus and his coaching staff have backed the next generation of Springbok backs to deliver on one of rugby's most unforgiving stages against the All Blacks.

- LEIGHTON KOOPMAN

For some, it might seem an audacious plan by the Boks, especially because they are fighting to stay in the hunt for the Championship title they currently hold. Another loss could put them on the back foot and possibly out of the running.

However, the youthful flair, raw energy, and creativity among the backs for the duel at the Cake Tin in Wellington (9.05am kickoff) could prove to be the difference between the sides. During the first Test at Eden Park, the tried-and-tested combinations did not work, and something had to be done to freshen things up for the second match.

The Boks relied on their set piece and kicking game to break an 88-year-old duck at Eden Park, but that failed to materialise. It was a game built on their forwards and a conservative, kick-heavy plan. It worked at times, but they could not pull it through. The side for Saturday could tilt heavily towards creativity and ambition, even in the predicted wet conditions.