The Boks have sufficient specialist locks and versatile forwards to cover Lood de Jager’s absence in the lineout.
The Boks Unlikely to Call on Moerat
The Springboks are unlikely to use standby lock Salmaan Moerat in their final three matches of the season.
They already have enough specialist locks and versatile forwards who can cover the position if needed.
Coach Rassie Erasmus seems confident in the Boks’ existing depth at lock.
De Jager Handed Four-Match Ban
Bok lock Lood de Jager received a four-match ban for a no-arms tackle against France last weekend.
The incident occurred during the Boks’ 32–17 victory in Paris.
The suspension rules him out of all remaining matches, starting with Italy in Turin on Saturday (kick-off 2.40pm).
Nortjé Steps Up After Red Card
De Jager’s red card came in the 38th minute against France.
At halftime, Bok captain Siya Kolisi made way for Ruan Nortjé to strengthen the lineouts.
Nortjé partnered with Eben Etzebeth until Etzebeth was replaced by RG Snyman in the 47th minute.
It’s expected that Etzebeth, Nortjé, and Snyman will all feature in the Boks’ matchday 23 against Italy.
Mostert and Kleyn Could Fill the Void
Franco Mostert remains the most experienced option for the Boks, with 82 Test caps and five appearances this season.
Jean Kleyn is another possibility, though he last played for the Boks in June’s Barbarians non-Test.
This could be an ideal chance for the Munster lock to add to his seven international caps for the Boks.
The Boks’ Utility Options: Du Toit and Dixon
Erasmus could turn to flankers Pieter-Steph du Toit and Ben-Jason Dixon as backup locks for the Boks.
Both have experience in the second row, even if it’s not their main position.
The Springboks coaching staff value such versatility when managing injuries and rotation.
Du Toit’s Reliable Consistency for the Boks
Du Toit has played 80 minutes in each of his last eight Test matches for the Squad.
He’s a proven performer who can also manage lineout responsibilities if a lock becomes unavailable.
His leadership and adaptability make him a vital part of the Bok pack.
Dixon’s Limited Lock Experience
Ben-Jason Dixon had earned five Springbok caps in 2024, all as a flanker.
He last played lock for the Stormers in 2023.
It’s unlikely they will use him there, but Erasmus has made bold calls before.
He once picked Cobus Wiese at No 8, despite no prior experience in that role.
Moerat’s Return Boosts the Boks’ Depth
Salmaan Moerat has only recently returned from a knee injury suffered in July.
He last played for the Team against Italy in Gqeberha before missing the Rugby Championship and early URC matches.
Moerat returned in the Stormers’ fifth-round game against Benetton, playing only the first half.
His recovery strengthens the Boks’ depth heading into the final Tests of the year.
The Boks’ Final Fixtures and Team Announcement
After facing Italy, the Springboks will meet Ireland and Wales to close their season.
These final matches will test the Boks’ squad depth and adaptability after De Jager’s suspension.
Coach Rassie Erasmus will announce his team for the Italy Test on Thursday afternoon.
