Springbok coach Allister Coetzee has revealed that uncapped Springbok flanker Jaco Kriel was close to matchday selection for the first two tests against Ireland, despite having only made his bench for the first time for Saturday's clash in Port Elizabeth.
Springbok coach Allister Coetzee has revealed that uncapped Springbok flanker Jaco Kriel was close to matchday selection for the first two tests against Ireland, despite having only made his bench for the first time for Saturday's clash in Port Elizabeth.
On Kriel's selection, Coetzee said: “Jaco has been close to selection every time and he now gets his chance in the match day squad."
Coetzee also paid tribute to Steven Kitshoff – the uncapped prop who has taken injured Trevor Nyakane's place on his bench.
"Steven has worked extremely hard since we got together as a team and he also has an opportunity to show his promise should he take to the field," said the Grahamstown-born coach.
With the series poised at one win apiece, Saturday's clash is a case of winner takes all.
Whether or not Coetzee emerges victorious in his first series as Springbok coach, he will return to his town of birth on Tuesday and is set to receive a hero's welcome.
You can follow the test on Saturday and Coetzee's visit to Grahamstown by liking Grocott's Mail Sport on Facebook and following @GrocottsSport on Twitter.
