Three potential bolters to fill injured Bok scrumhalf's spot
OPINION: Will it be a case of “one man’s loss is another’s gain” with uncertainty looming over a Springbok scrumhalf’s availability for the international window?
Following the Sharks’ dramatic United Rugby Championship win through a penalty shootout against Munster, head coach John Plumtree confirmed that scrumhalf Grant Williams’ return is yet to be confirmed.
The No.9 has been ruled out with a neck injury since late April and there is no clear timeline for the 2023 World Cup winner’s return.
Williams started just twice for the Boks in 2024 but played an integral part, playing six times off the bench.
He was often used to change the tempo of the match in the final quarter during the 2024 season. He also fits the Boks’ mould of having a six-two and sometimes seven-one forward-heavy bench with his ability to play No.9 and wing.
One of his most memorable moments of the 2024 season was scoring the winning try against New Zealand with three minutes left to play at Ellis Park after the Boks had to stage a comeback from being 10 points down.
Williams’ absence opens up the door for a Bok bolter as there is still some uncertainty over the availability of veteran Faf de Klerk, who has also battled with injury lately.
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Who are the options?
Embrose Papier: The Bulls No.9 has been a revelation the past couple of seasons displaying the form that made him a Bok in 2018. The seven-time capped scrumhalf certainly has the pace to cover wing if required, with a strong kicking game to boot.
Keagan Johannes: Eyebrows were raised when Jake White named Johannes at flyhalf for the first time against Benetton in March. The utility back caught the eye in the playmaking position since and produced a solid performance in the URC quarterfinal against Edinburgh this past weekend.
Paul de Wet: The Stormers No.9 was invited to the Boks’ first alignment camp of 2025. The scrumhalf has been one of the better performers in an inconsistent Stormers team this season and like the injured Williams, he can cover scrumhalf and wing.
Who would be your selection to replace Grant Williams?
*Let us know in the comments below…
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