There were suggestions that Erasmus should select two different squads, however, he indicated for the Test in the USA against the Welsh and the first Test against the English he will be selecting an enlarged squad.

The Welsh coach, Warren Gatland, has already named a somewhat new-looked for the Test against the Springboks and their two Test against Argentina. Many of the team’s big names, especially British & Irish Lions are being rested.

The Welsh assistant, Neil Jenkins, says any Test against the Springboks is a huge deal.

“South Africa are going to be pretty tough and pretty physical. Obviously they are going to be playing against England after us.

“No matter what side they send, they are going to be tough and they are going to be uncompromising.

“We have managed to beat them on the last few occasions and I know that won’t be sitting well with them, but this will just be another other opportunity to do something different.

“If you beat South Africa anywhere on the planet and this is including at home, it is a pretty good achievement.

“I think we just have three or four wins in thirty-odd occasions, so that record speaks for itself as to how good South Africa have been.

“If we can go to Washington and turn them over it will be another fantastic achievement for the national team.”

The Springboks and Wales have faces each a total of 33 times in the part, with 30 wins going the way of South Africa. One Test in 1970 ended in a 6-6 draw. Wales have 3 victories, of which two were in their last two encounters.

Next weeks’ Saturday’s Test at the Robert F. Kennedy Stadium between the Springboks and Wales in Washington DC kicks off at 23:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport