Overview

• Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus signalled in-game switches that could shift André Esterhuizen to loose forward against Argentina in Durban.
• Erasmus also outlined potential backline reshuffles involving Manie Libbok, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu at fullback, and Damian Willemse at inside centre.
• Kwagga Smith reported that Esterhuizen has trained regularly with the loose forwards and mainly needs refinement in scrum and lineout technique.
• Esterhuizen has already covered the side of the scrum this season in the Barbarians match and against Italy after Jasper Wiese’s red card.
• Analysts noted his bench role could cover 12 or No. 6 to mimic a 6/2 split, aided by his 193cm, 114–116kg frame that suits forward duties.