Rassie Erasmus Backs Flexible Springbok Combinations After Record-Breaking Durban Win

When the dust settled at Kings Park after South Africa’s thrilling 67-30 demolition of Argentina, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus wasn’t just celebrating the scoreboard. He was celebrating something far more valuable: the ability of his players to adapt and thrive, even when plans are thrown into chaos.

Feinberg-Mngomezulu Steals the Show

The night belonged to Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who etched his name into Bok folklore with a jaw-dropping 37 points, including a hat-trick of tries. His haul set a new record for the most points by a Springbok in a Test match, a feat that had fans in Durban chanting his name long after the final whistle. The performance also fired the Boks to the top of the Rugby Championship table with just one game left.

Rassie’s Project of Flexibility

Erasmus, though, shifted the spotlight to his squad’s depth. With Cheslin Kolbe, Damian Willemse and Ethan Hooker all sidelined by injuries during the clash, the Boks were forced to reshuffle their entire backline. Instead of faltering, the team continued to attack with authority.

“What we’re trying to do is not just build some combinations that work, but that all of our combinations work,” Erasmus explained, emphasising his long-term vision of a squad where every player can slot in seamlessly. “It takes time to swap people in and out and have them play in sync, but I guess that’s starting to click.”

Fans Applaud the Depth

Social media lit up with praise for Erasmus’s approach. One supporter wrote on X (formerly Twitter): “Only Rassie could rebuild half a backline mid-game and still put Argentina to the sword.” Another added, “This is why the Boks are world champions adaptability is our superpower.”

Eyes on Twickenham

Despite the jubilation, Erasmus was quick to caution against complacency. “We’ve won nothing yet,” he said. The Boks head to London this week to face Argentina at Twickenham, knowing that victory will secure them the Rugby Championship crown. A slip-up, however, could turn a historic Durban night into a missed opportunity.

Why This Matters for South African Rugby

Beyond the points and the records, this win symbolises the Springboks’ evolution. South Africa has always been renowned for its physicality, but Erasmus is determined to add adaptability and tactical fluidity to the mix. For fans, the Durban spectacle wasn’t just about beating Argentina. It was about glimpsing a future where the Boks can outmuscle and outthink any opponent, on any stage.

{Source: SABC Sport}

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