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Erasmus Defends Omitting Evan Roos From Springboks Tour Squad

The coach cites superior Test-level output from Jasper Wiese alongside Kwagga Smith.

Overview

  • Evan Roos was left out of the 36-man Springboks touring group and placed on a 10-player standby list for the five November Tests.
  • Rassie Erasmus responded on X to fan queries, calling Roos a world-class player and saying he will play many Tests, possibly from 2027.
  • Erasmus said incumbents Jasper Wiese and Kwagga Smith are currently delivering at a higher level in the No. 8 role.
  • Roos has started the URC strongly with four tries in four matches but has only one Test appearance this year and eight caps since 2022.
  • The tour schedule lists Japan, France, Italy, Ireland and Wales, with No. 8 cover coming from Wiese, Smith and Siya Kolisi.