Adre Smith boosts Bok lock stocks as De Jager nears full fitness
The Springboks’ decision to bring Stormers lock Adre Smith into the national squad appears to be as much about managing Lood de Jager’s return as it is about addressing a growing injury list in the second row.
De Jager underwent hip surgery in January, and, at one stage, there were genuine fears that the veteran Springbok would miss the July Test window altogether.
However, the 33-year-old has made encouraging progress, returning to action in Japan a fortnight ago before rejoining the Bok camp in Johannesburg.
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While De Jager is back in training, the arrival of Smith suggests the Springbok management is determined not to rush one of their most experienced locks back into full match intensity.
Instead, it provides the coaching staff with the flexibility to gradually build De Jager’s fitness ahead of the first Test against England at Ellis Park on July 4.
The move comes at a time when South Africa’s lock resources have been stretched. Salmaan Moerat was released from camp last week due to a persistent neck injury, prompting the call-up of the Stormers’ Ruben van Heerden.
On Sunday, Van Heerden’s Stormers teammate Smith was added to bolster the stocks further.
Rather than signalling panic, the additions reflect a proactive approach from Rassie Erasmus and his coaching team. With a demanding international season ahead, the Boks are looking to strengthen their depth while ensuring key players such as De Jager are given the best possible chance of returning at full strength.
Speaking on Tuesday, assistant coach Deon Davids hinted that squad planning around the lock position had become a priority. Davids will act as an assistant for both the SA ‘A’ team against Zimbabwe as well as the Springboks against the Barbarians this weekend.
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“We’ve looked at different scenarios and the selections we need to make based on the players available,” Davids explained.
He highlighted Van Heerden’s ability to run the lineout and make calls, while describing Smith as a physical presence capable of filling a specific role in the pack.
“Adre is more of a No.4 lock who brings that grunt and physicality to the team. Having him with Ruben, and players like Vincent Tshituka who can also cover there, means we’ve got enough depth if injuries happen or if we need cover at either lock position.”
Davids acknowledged that losing several experienced locks is far from ideal but said the Springboks have learned to adapt.
“It’s never the perfect scenario when you lose quality players through injury, especially in the lock department. But we’ve learned over the years that South Africa has a lot of quality players.
“Whenever someone gets injured, it creates an opportunity for the next player. We’ve seen the talent coming through, even at junior level, and this is a chance for those players to get exposure and show they can step up,” Davids elaborated.
The Springbok and SA ‘A’ team will be announced on Tuesday, and the squad will travel to Port Elizabeth on Wednesday.
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