If you’re ever bored, it’s well worth taking the time to listen to Rassie Erasmus’ press conferences.

You get a real insight into what he and the Bok coaching team are thinking.

In the press conference after the Scotland game, Rassie revealed they actually thought Scotland would be a tougher opponent than England.

That’s despite naming what most people would have considered our strongest side for England, before making ten changes for the team that faced Scotland.

Why?

Because you need to give the up-and-coming players game time against top-tier opposition—not just against minnows like Georgia, for example.

Because how else are you going to know if the guy has what it takes…

Rassie was the first to admit it was a disjointed performance, despite the thrilling victory in the end.

He also admitted they would have to think carefully about their selection for Wales.

And I think you can already see they’ve gone with a stronger spine against the Welsh to support the youngsters like Jaco Williams and Vusi Moyo, who will make their debuts alongside Ruben van Heerden.

It’s hard to believe Wales were ranked higher than the Boks back in 2019.

In fact, between 2014 and 2018, Wales won five of their six matches against South Africa.

Times certainly have changed…

What is certain, though, is that the Welsh side we face this weekend will put up a much stronger fight than the team that was demolished 73–0 last November.

Firstly, they’ll have their strongest side available.

Secondly, their performances have been steadily improving all year.

The Boks, though…

Should still be too good.

As if the game against Wales wasn’t enough, the Baby Boks will face France in the final of the World Rugby Under-20 Championship at almost exactly the same time on Saturday.

It’s absolutely mind-blowing how good some of these youngsters are.

I really like the look of Yaqeen Ahmed, Ethan Adams and Luan Giliomee.

But do you know what’s struck me the most?

The Baby Boks still play a game built on forward dominance…

But that backline…

It reminds me of the All Blacks of old.

Running from everywhere.

Dangerous at all times.

The Bok future, certainly, is secure.

Until next time,

Rudi
Aussieboks