Whether chosen to start or play a supportive role, the Springboks need hard man Duane Vermeulen to defend the Webb Ellis Cup in France, writes MARK KEOHANE.
The veteran loose forward is aiming to make a third World Cup appearance, and turning 37 in July, he would be the oldest player in a 33-man squad if selected for what he has confirmed will be his career swansong.
But, the World Cup winner faces heavy competition at No 8, with Jasper Wiese, Kwagga Smith and Evan Roos also pushing for a place in the final cut.
In his TimesLIVE column, Keohane insists that Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber must find a spot for “yster” Vermeulen, even just to fulfill a similar role to former Bok Schalk Brits in Japan four years ago.
KEO: Boks love being written off
“Duane Vermeulen must go to the World Cup in France later this year. He is still good enough and whether he starts, finishes or watches from the stands, he is pivotal to a successful Springbok World Cup defence,” he writes.
“SA’s director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus respects the toil of age, but also appreciates the wisdom of age when it comes to players.
“Schalk Brits is a primary example of how Erasmus used the flamboyant hooker at the 2019 World Cup. His role, where he captained the team on occasion, played at No 8, inspired and mentored and sat in the stands and added to the cheers when the Boks obliterated England in the final was a testament to Brits and the strength of a squad, where everyone knew their respective roles.
“Vermeulen is a meneer, an yster, and he embodies the very best of the Springboks.”
Photo: Gavin Barker/BackpagePix