BOKOMETER: The race is on for the Springbok No.15 jersey
SPOTLIGHT: With the international season fast approaching, the battle for the Springboks’ No.15 jersey is intensifying as Rassie Erasmus weighs up his options ahead of the Greatest Rivalry Series with New Zealand and the Nations Championship.
Fullback remains one of the most pivotal roles in modern rugby.
The last line of defence and often a secondary playmaker tasked with fielding high balls, launching counter-attacks, and controlling territory with a tactical boot.
Veteran Willie le Roux, now on 101 Test caps, appears to be entering the twilight of his international career after being dropped for the home leg of last year’s Rugby Championship following a subdued display against the All Blacks in Auckland. With an eye on 2027, Erasmus is likely to prioritise longer-term options.
Kurt-Lee Arendse and Canan Moodie are both able to slot in quite comfortably in the No.15 berth, but are potentially more needed in their first-choice positions.
Two of the main contenders at fullback, Aphelele Fassi and Quan Horn, come face to face with each other this weekend when the Lions host the Sharks at Ellis Park.
Aphelele Fassi has surged back into contention after overcoming a serious ankle injury suffered in Wellington last year. The Sharks’ fullback has delivered standout performances in recent weeks, showcasing his attacking spark, improved aerial dominance, and a booming left boot that has produced several telling 50-22 kicks. Besides his running game, he has become one of the world’s best players under the high ball. If he can remain injury-free, he should be in contention for a starting berth in the Tests this year.
Damian Willemse remains a key figure in the Bok set-up. With more than 50 caps and the ability to slot in at flyhalf or inside centre, his versatility is invaluable. While injuries have disrupted his rhythm, his ability to turn defence into attack keeps him firmly in the selection mix. He remains a vital cog in the Bok set-up because of his outrageous versatility.
Quan Horn continues to build momentum with the Lions. Reliable under the high ball and dangerous in space, he has shown flashes of brilliance, though some believe he needs to assert himself more consistently to truly challenge for national honours.
Abroad, Tyrone Green’s form for Harlequins has not gone unnoticed. Among the Premiership’s leaders for metres gained and defenders beaten, the former Lion offers an attacking edge and physicality suited to Bok rugby. However, Erasmus has historically shown reluctance to look his way.
Rhyno Smith has also entered the conversation after impressive displays for Benetton. Comfortable in the air, accurate off the tee, and a constant attacking threat, Smith adds further depth to an already competitive race.
With Erasmus known for rotating widely and rewarding form, the coming weeks could prove decisive in determining who claims the Springboks’ last line of defence in 2026.
