The Ruan/Frans scenario

Ruan in for Frans Steyn.

Big talking point this is for Saturday’s Test. But let’s get some perspective here. What the Boks are losing is a long (though no more accurate) boot and dominating defence. What we are gaining is a great ball player that knows how to pass in the tackle, run around opponents and more importantly, and this I suspect is the biggest reason for the change, gives the team more options in the flyhalf channel.

We all agree that Morne Steyn and Ruan Pienaar have outstanding yet different flyhalf qualities. Now imagine if we had both on offer on the field to use as and how the situation calls? Remember how Brent Russell and Werner Greeff gave the Wallabies grief in 2002? One with a driving boot and physical defence, and the other with sniping running and vision? Good luck with stopping that Wallabies.

Morne has also deputised well at 15, and given the players around him in the backline, he won’t have to worry about being exposed in defence. The Aussies will also think twice about dropping bombs his way with his ridiculously effective boot.

This move is a win-win. One does feel a bit sorry for Frans, but since he has removed himself from the Bok picture for two years, this step had to be taken sooner rather than later.

Also on the plus side, the Bokke now have a player on the bench who can cover 10, 12, and 15 with aplomb and has a long-range boot like no other.

All in all this bodes well for the Bokke. Another positive step for the PdV era.