Springboks: Ruan Nortje beats Franco Mostert against Scotland

Bulls captain Ruan Nortje is set to retain his place in the Springboks’ starting XV for their clash with Scotland in the Autumn Nations Series.

This is a word from Rapport who reported that the second row would be favored by the Springboks ahead of Franco Mostert, who returned from the injury he picked up against Ireland mid-year.

Following Mostert’s injury, Nortje took over the No. 5 role with aplomb. It wasn’t perfect at first, as the second row did make mistakes against Australia, but then bounced back in droves to create blockbusters for the remainder of the Rugby Championship.

Where are they now? Springboks, winners of the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Changing of the guard

Two-time World Cup winner Mostert is entering the final stages of his career at the age of 33 and it certainly seems like a natural succession for the number five jersey is beginning to take place. No doubt Mostert will be looking to add to his experience as he eyes his next exhibit in 2027.

As the same report notes, in-form Bath player Thomas du Toit, who was present at Friday’s press conference, could be handed a rare start, which is usually an indication of inclusion in the playing squad.

In fairness, Du Toit has been incredibly unlucky not to have played more recently after taking the Premier League by storm since joining Johan van Graan’s side. He sits behind France Malherbe and Vincent Koch in the pecking order, but the former’s absence due to injury opens the door to his inclusion. Wilco Lowe was called up as the third tighthead.

South Africa to begin the Autumn Nations Series campaign against Scotland before facing England and then Wales to cap a year in which they only lost to Ireland and Argentina.