André the hybrid steps up as Springboks outmuscle France in World Cup 'revenge' clash

André Esterhuizen is settling seamlessly into his role as a hybrid weapon in the Springbok setup.

The powerful midfielder showcased his versatility once again in Paris on Saturday evening, crashing over for a well-earned try off a rolling maul and providing his muscle to the defensive wall that shut down any hopes of a French comeback.

His work-rate — from popping up in the midfield to lending a hand in the set pieces — proved crucial as the world champions powered to a 32-17 victory at the Stade de France, remaining unbeaten on their five-match November tour.

It’s not every day that the Boks substitute Damian de Allende, arguably the world’s top inside centre at the moment. But after a red card to lock Lood de Jager just before halftime, head coach Rassie Erasmus had to reshuffle his plans for the all-important 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final rematch.

Captain Siya Kolisi was replaced at halftime to make space for five-lock replacement Ruan Nortjé to run the lineouts, and shortly after that, De Allende had to leave to bring in Esterhuizen, who covered the No 6 position at scrum time and inside centre during line-outs on attack and defence at times.

“When the cards were down after that red card, the boys made good plans,” Esterhuizen said, about slotting into his dual roles.

“We spoke at halftime about staying on top of the French and dominating them physically. We made plans for the lineout and scrums to be able to do that. The boys really pulled together and executed the plan perfectly.

“We speak extensively about how I will be used in my hybrid role, but obviously, the plans changed a bit in this game. Normally, I know beforehand if I’ll be covering more of a centre or loose forward role.

"However, like in this match, you never know what can happen on the day — things can change. But the good thing is, we prepare for both situations.”

The Springboks will continue their November campaign with a duel against Italy in Turin this coming week.

The Boks faced a largely second-string Italian team earlier this year. Now, they’ll take on a fired-up Azzurri coming off a spirited victory over Australia, full of momentum for their rematch with the South Africans. And, their top players are available.

According to Esterhuizen, Italy can be a very unpredictable side, and after their victory over the Wallabies, the Boks are expecting a tough encounter in front of another unforgiving crowd.

“We’re two games down on this tough five-match tour and must work hard and get back to the drawing board. We can expect a big Test against the Italians.”