From flyhalf to the front row: Rassie Erasmus’ biggest Springbok selection dilemmas

With head coach Rassie Erasmus set to name his Springbok line-up on Thursday, all eyes are on the selection dilemmas that will have tested the Bok brains trust ahead of Saturday’s crunch November Test against France at the Stade de France in Paris (kick-off 10.10pm).

Injuries, form, and tactical balance have made this one of Erasmus’s trickiest team sheets since returning to the hot seat.

The loss of Ox Nché has forced a rethink in the front row, while flyhalf, lock, and midfield combinations all carry intriguing questions of experience versus evolution.

Whichever way Erasmus leans, the selection will reveal plenty about how the Springboks plan to approach this Test — whether to grind it out the traditional way, or unleash a fresher, faster brand of rugby that signals a new chapter in Springbok dominance.

Here are five positions that likely kept the Bok selectors up at night:

Flyhalf

This is arguably the biggest decision of the week.Does Erasmus stick with the reliability and game management of Handré Pollard, or lean into the attacking energy brought by Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Manie Libbok?

Pollard’s boot and composure under pressure are proven assets, particularly in high-stakes Tests like this one. Yet, Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Libbok have been instrumental in the Boks’ renewed attacking shape — a style that leans on tempo, width, and instinct.

Much will depend on the game plan. If Erasmus opts for territory and structure, Pollard fits perfectly. If he wants to stretch France and test them out wide, Libbok or the fearless Feinberg-Mngomezulu might be the call.

No 5 Lock

Eben Etzebeth is a guaranteed starter — his physicality and leadership are non-negotiable — but who partners him is the real debate.

Lood de Jager brings lineout expertise and calm control; Ruan Nortjé adds mobility and athleticism; and RG Snyman, fresh from a strong showing against Japan, offers dynamism and impact over 80 minutes.

Given France’s formidable lineout and maul, Erasmus will need precision and cohesion. Experience may edge this call, but the depth in this department gives the Boks enviable options.

Scrumhalf

A straight shootout between Cobus Reinach and Grant Williams, both of whom have been superb in their respective outings this season.

Reinach provides a measured tempo and clinical kicking game — qualities that suit Tests where territory is paramount. Williams, by contrast, brings blistering pace, quick distribution, and an attacking spark that can unsettle defences.

Whoever starts will shoulder enormous responsibility in directing the Boks’ tactical kicking plan and igniting a backline packed with game-breakers.

Loosehead Prop

With Ox Nché ruled out, Erasmus faces another major headache.Does he trust his rookies, Gerhard Steenekamp and Boan Venter, or call on Thomas du Toit, whose versatility allows him to pack down on either side of the scrum?

Du Toit’s experience and adaptability could make him the safe bet, especially against France’s brutal front row.

Yet, handing one of the youngsters a start could be invaluable for long-term depth. Expect a balance here — experience up front, youth on the bench.

Outside Centre

Perhaps the most intriguing question: Canan Moodie or Jesse Kriel alongside Damian de Allende?

Kriel and De Allende have been the Springboks’ tried-and-tested midfield duo, combining defensive steel with understanding born of years together. But Moodie’s rapid development and X-factor have made him impossible to ignore.

The youngster offers unpredictability and flair, while maintaining the physicality needed to match France’s powerful midfield. Erasmus may well back the established pair for this Test — but Moodie’s time is fast approaching.