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Can the Springboks really go three-deep?

Can the Springboks genuinely field three 'international' teams of comparable strength?

Published: Thursday, 8 October 2026 at 8:07 PM
Can the Springboks really go three-deep?
Key Things to Know
  • Jan de Koning analyzes whether the Springboks possess genuine three-player depth across every position without relying on utility players.
  • De Koning finds outside center and left wing particularly thin after coach Rassie Erasmus used only two players in those roles.
  • The analysis highlights dominant squad depth in the front row, led by Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, and Thomas du Toit.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Jan de Koning analyzes whether the South African Springboks can field three quality options across every position based strictly on capped players from their nine Tests this year. While head coach Rassie Erasmus has demonstrated significant squad versatility, de Koning evaluates the team's depth without relying on players covering multiple positions.

De Koning concludes that while South Africa boasts exceptional depth in the front row and loose forwards, positions such as outside center and left wing remain thin, having utilized only two specialist options throughout the season.

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