Jantjies on Jantjies: The 'bond' that can benefit the Boks
SPOTLIGHT: They are not related, but Elton Jantjies and Herschel Jantjies have a “certain bond” and the Boks will hope that will translate into success on the field against Scotland on Saturday.
Elton Jantjies has been given a rare opportunity to start in the No.10 jersey, after some strong cameos off the bench recently.
And with Francois de Klerk out injured, Herschel Jantjies has been entrusted with the No.9 jersey in the first two matches of the year-end tour.
He started in that position in South Africa’s 23-18 win over Wales in Cardiff in the tour opener.
Herschel Jantjies did not have the best performance against the Welsh and Saturday’s match against the Scots will be an opportunity for him to right the wrongs.
Elton Jantjies has had his fair share of criticism over the years, with many fans believing he is not good enough to be a starter for the Boks.
With both Elton Jantjies and Herschel Jantjies being named in the starting XV this weekend, there will be a huge spotlight on them in the Murrayfield cauldron.
“It’s nice, because we are roommates and we got a certain bond,” Elton Jantjies told a virtual media briefing.
“Playing together, it’s another opportunity for us to lead the boys and make sure that we execute our plan by playing in the right areas of the field and looking for opportunities on the field.
“It’s just an opportunity for us playing together and it’s not an individual thing – it’s all about the team.”
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#ICYMI: Jantjies knows that his opposite number Finn Russell has all the capabilities to be a match-winner for Scotland on Saturday. #SouthAfrica #Springboks #Scotland #SCOvRSA https://t.co/u9qXN6vcGI
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Scrumhalf competition
Elton Jantjies says the competition at scrumhalf between De Klerk, Herschel Jantjies, Cobus Reinach and Grant Williams can only be beneficial for the team.
“I’m sure those boys are not just playing for themselves. They also play for the team and make sure that we improve our game plan as well as they can,” Elton Jantjies explained.
“Grant is learning and developing as a rugby player with the group and he is willing to share what he has seen and how he feels in certain situations.
“We got good competition at No.9. Our game plan presents us with opportunities, so if Herschel is in that position or if there is an opportunity then hopefully he is in the right mindset to take it.”
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