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Three Springboks who failed to impress against Italy – and who should replace them

Springboks Rugby News
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South Africa may have demolished Italy in Turin, but not every Springbok covered themselves in glory.
Rassie Erasmus watched his side run riot in the Nations Championship, with Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Malcolm Marx among the standout performers.
However, even in such a convincing victory, there were a few players who failed to hit their usual heights.
With six uncapped players included in the Springboks squad, competition for places is fierce.
Here are three Springboks who could make way.

1. Ox Nche

The powerful loosehead endured a rare off-day against Italy.
Nche struggled to get the better of the Italian pack, who held firm in an area South Africa usually dominate.
He was then penalised for not driving straight early in the second half before being replaced after just 45 minutes.
It was hardly the sort of performance fans have come to expect from one of the world's most feared scrummagers.
Who should replace him? Gerhard Steenekamp
The Bulls prop came off the bench in Turin and deserves a chance to start.
Steenekamp has become a reliable member of Erasmus' squad and could benefit from an opportunity in the starting XV.

2. Jesse Kriel

The experienced centre has been one of South Africa's most dependable performers in recent years.
However, this was hardly a vintage display.
Kriel was relatively quiet in attack, with most of the damage being done by the forwards and the backs inside him.
More concerning were his three missed tackles, particularly in a match South Africa dominated.
Who should replace him? Canan Moodie
The talented Bulls youngster offers something different in midfield.
Moodie has the pace, power and attacking ability to cause problems for even the best defences.
With the 2027 Rugby World Cup approaching, Erasmus could use the opportunity to give him another run at outside centre.

3. Kurt-Lee Arendse

Arendse wasn't terrible against Italy, but he will know he could have offered more.
The winger enjoyed some success against Monty Ioane in the air and remained lively whenever South Africa moved the ball wide.
However, he was also guilty of conceding several turnovers.
It was a decent performance rather than the explosive display Springboks supporters have come to expect.
Who should replace him? Edwill van der Merwe
The Sharks speedster deserves another opportunity to show what he can do at international level.
Van der Merwe offers blistering pace and a natural finishing instinct.
With Cheslin Kolbe among four Springboks ruled out through injury, Erasmus could be tempted to give him another chance.

Erasmus has some big decisions to make

South Africa's incredible squad depth means nobody can afford to get too comfortable.
Nche, Kriel and Arendse remain established internationals, and one underwhelming performance is hardly a reason to write them off.
However, with more Tests to come, Erasmus has some big selection calls ahead.
The Springboks touring squad gives him plenty of alternatives.
And there are several hungry Springboks waiting for their chance.

Rate the Springboks players vs Italy

Think we've been too harsh on Nche, Kriel or Arendse? Now it's your turn to have your say.
The Springboks ran riot in Turin, but who impressed you most? And which players failed to deliver?
Give every Springbok a rating out of five stars using RUCK's interactive player ratings tool.
See how your ratings compare with fellow Springboks supporters.
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