I recently undertook the task of selecting a possible SA 'A' side for the July incoming tour's midweek games. For the most part, the feedback was fairly positive with debates ranging around the likes of Gelant and Tyrone Green and a few other positions. There was quite a bit of outrage at my selection for the front row, which is what inspired this article. Many felt the selection was a downgrade for players, but I think the point was missed. What it should have shown, is just how incredible depth we boast in the front row.
I selected the starting front row as 1. Trevor 2. Dweba 3. Du Toit, with the bench featuring new comers in the form of Johan Grobbelaar, Nthuthuko Mchunu and Neethling Fouche. Now you're probably wondering how I could select Trevor and even Thomas in the SA 'A' side so let me explain my thinking.
The Springboks currently boast 7 players to fill 2 positions in the starting team, Kitshoff, Ox, Trevor, Thomas, Malherbe, Oosthuizen and Koch. All of these players, bar Oosthuizen featured in the Boks end of year tour last year and I find it highly unlikely that any new players will crack the nod for the squad this year. All of the players mentioned are currently fit and in form.
Trevor is able to play both sides of the scrum, and whilst currently utilized at tight head for the Green & Gold giving him game time in the #1 jumper would only further his ability to contribute to the cause at the World Cup in 2023. Starting him in the SA 'A' side alongside Thomas the Tank would also offer a goof platform for the young up and comers to grow from and some much needed experience to the team.
We are incredibly fortunate as Springbok supporters as we have arguably not one, but two of the best front rows in the world at the moment and I haven't even discussed our privilege's in the hooker department where Bongi and Malcolm are backed up by Dweba. Rotation in the front row will breed competitiveness and can only lead to the kind of forward dominance that was the hall mark of the Boks game in the 2019 show piece.