Erasmus defends Springboks’ Johannesburg stay before Cape Town Test

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has downplayed concerns surrounding the team's decision to remain in Johannesburg to train for their second Test against the All Blacks, despite a forecast of rain in Cape Town. The defending Rugby World Cup champions are preparing for a critical match this Saturday at DHL Stadium after a decisive 33-16 defeat in the series opener at Ellis Park.

Instead of traveling to Cape Town immediately after last Saturday's loss for a full week of preparation, Erasmus opted for the squad to continue training at altitude in the Johannesburg sunshine, delaying their travel south until Wednesday afternoon. This choice raised questions, especially given a 45 percent chance of rain predicted for the Cape Town fixture, potentially impacting wet-weather play.

Strategy behind high-altitude training

Erasmus articulated that training in wet conditions would not inherently improve their game, emphasizing the comfort and familiarity of their current Johannesburg base. "We train Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday; most other teams train Monday, Tuesday and Thursday," Erasmus stated, explaining the team's schedule. He noted the squad's established routine, with access to recovery facilities like pools, ice baths, and saunas, and their general comfort with the training environment.

The logistical convenience also played a role in the decision, with the team planning to leave their equipment in Johannesburg as they will return next Sunday. Their Wednesday travel allows for a Thursday off before the match. "We’re training at altitude so when we go there, it will be nice to have some more oxygen. So, for us just as a team, we decided it makes more sense for us," Erasmus explained regarding the team's choice. For more global rugby news and analysis, explore our world rugby coverage.

Squad changes and forward depth

The upcoming Test has also prompted significant squad adjustments, notably the recall of 39-year-old Deon Fourie to provide specialist hooker cover for Malcolm Marx. This move comes at the expense of Jan-Hendrik Wessels, who last Saturday played as a loosehead prop after coming on as a substitute. Fourie has primarily played in the back row throughout his career, but Erasmus confirmed his selection as a specialist hooker for this weekend.

The Springboks coach hinted at a long-term plan to develop Wessels into a specialist reserve hooker, addressing the need for depth in that position. Erasmus also touched on the fitness of Ox Nche, who had limited game time before last weekend's match. Nche played about 45 minutes before being replaced by Gerhard Steenekamp, who himself only managed around 20 minutes before an injury forced the introduction of Vincent Koch at loosehead prop, further highlighting challenges in the forward pack.

Former Springbok coach Nick Mallett highlighted the significance of Saturday's match for player selections, stressing that "losing is unacceptable" and suggesting that World Cup places are on the line for the squad in Cape Town. Erasmus's strategic decisions, including this training choice, remain under scrutiny as the team seeks to rebound from their opening loss and solidify their World Cup aspirations. For deeper insights into Erasmus's coaching strategies, readers can review how Erasmus defends Springbok rotation after chaotic Scotland wins.