2. Marco van Staden
Van Staden was introduced to give South Africa fresh energy around the breakdown as they attempted to regain control during the final quarter.
Instead, his biggest contribution was one Erasmus will want to forget.
The replacement flanker was shown a yellow card following a breakdown infringement just metres from his own line, leaving the Springboks short-handed at exactly the point they needed to produce a comeback.
South Africa eventually finished the contest with only 13 players after another yellow card followed.
Verdict: Keep him on the bench
There is no need for Erasmus to completely abandon Van Staden.
His breakdown ability remains valuable, particularly against an All Blacks side that wants quick ball.
However, he certainly hasn’t done enough to force his way into the starting XV for the second Test.
1. Cobus Reinach
This was a nightmare cameo from one of South Africa’s most experienced backs.
Reinach was introduced with the expectation that he would bring calmness and control to the closing stages.
Instead, he helped reduce South Africa to 13 men.
The scrum-half was shown a yellow card for an intentional knock-on following an All Blacks scrum, compounding an already difficult final quarter for the hosts.
For a player brought onto the field specifically because of his experience, it was an unforgivable mistake.
Replacement: Another reason to bring back Faf de Klerk
If Erasmus does consider recalling De Klerk, Reinach’s performance has strengthened the argument.
The Springboks need composure at scrum-half and their replacement nine provided the exact opposite at Ellis Park.
Williams will undoubtedly remain heavily involved, but the door could now be open for Erasmus to reconsider his options behind the scrum
Rugby Quiz: Can you name the past 25 Springboks captains?
How well do you know the Springboks? South Africa have had some legendary leaders over the years, with some of the game’s biggest names taking on the responsibility of captaining the current world champions.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
But how many of their last 25 captains can you remember? Test your rugby knowledge and see if you can name every player to have led the Springboks in their most recent appearances.
