Lock Jean Kleyn is not only the “perfect fit” for the Springboks, but his potential World Cup selection by Rassie Erasmus will annoy rivals Ireland, writes MARK KEOHANE.
Kleyn played five Tests for Ireland after qualifying on residency grounds in September 2019, but he last represented his adoptive country on 12 October, 2019, and is set to become the first South African to benefit from World Rugby’s change in eligibility laws.
The 29-year-old was a surprise inclusion in a recent Bok training squad, and is poised to make his debut for SA in the Rugby Championship against Australia on 8 July, in the absence of the injured Eben Etzebeth.
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In his TimesLIVE column, Keohane argues that the Bok management know how invaluable Kleyn’s experience of playing for Ireland will be to the world champions’ preparations for their World Cup pool match against the top-ranked team in France.
“Jean Kleyn’s selection for the Springboks is a Rassie Erasmus masterstroke – and one that will get into the heads of Ireland,” he writes.
“Erasmus and Bok coach Jacques Nienaber are down on their lock stocks. Kleyn, the right player, at the right time, is the perfect fit for these Boks.
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“Ireland’s rugby leadership will publicly dismiss Kleyn’s Bok selection… But it will annoy them that he is there.
“Kleyn is one selection Ireland will rue and South Africa will revel in, especially when you consider his contribution for Munster this past club season.”
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