The Springboks star who ‘deserves a start’ as Rassie Erasmus thought it would be ‘tough for him to get back’
Morne van deb Berg (left) has been picked to start this weekend against the All Blacks, after a strong cameo off the bench in Test Three
Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus says Morne van den Berg ‘took his opportunity’ off the bench against the All Blacks, and that his efforts warrant a start in Baltimore.
The Lions scrum-half was one of just two changes to the Springboks’ starting XV for the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry decider in Baltimore, USA this weekend, starting at scrum-half in place of Cobus Reinach, who drops to the bench.
In doing so, Van den Berg makes just his sixth start in the Green and Gold jersey since his debut in 2024, and his first since their victory over Wales back in November.
‘We think he deserves a start’
The scrum-half has certainly had to be patient with his chances at Test level, given he is competing with the likes of Grant Williams, Reinach and Faf de Klerk, with Van den Berg described as ‘Faf lite’ in certain corners, or through injuries, but Erasmus insists this is no sympathy start and his efforts off the bench against the All Blacks deserve to be rewarded.
“We’ve been tracking him for a while; he’s not a young player, but we’ve always tracked him,” the head coach explained.
“He’s been unfortunate with injuries and also some good nines who’ve played ahead of him or got opportunities ahead of him. But now, with a few guys injured, he’s got his chance. Whenever he’s been in the camp, he’s always contributed positively, even if he’s not playing or is just helping with analysis.
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“After his last injury, we thought it was going to be tough for him to get back into the mix, but he did his rehab really well and is back to full fitness. Last week, when he got his opportunity, he did really well and we think he deserves a start.”
“Morne made a fantastic impact when he took the field last week,” he added. “He deserves a chance to start, so Cobus switches to the bench where he will add experience and skill in this vital match.”
The change is even more noteworthy considering Erasmus has kept 13 of the starting XV in place from last weekend’s impressive victory in Soweto, while the other change sees Damian Willemse replacing the injured Cheslin Kolbe.
“We feel that the team is well settled and all the players delivered in their respective roles in the last two matches,” said the Boks boss. “We believe selecting the same matchday squad, and naming Damian back in his regular position, makes sense for the closing match of the series.
“These players also know exactly what to expect from a very determined All Blacks team, who will give everything to draw the series this weekend.”
