Former Springboks Coach Reveals What Rassie Erasmus Should Consider for Nations Championship Squad
- Former Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer named Jeandré Rudolph among players who deserve selection for the November tour
- Rudolph scored a standout try in the Bulls' 56-20 Champions Cup win over Stade Français at Loftus on Saturday
- Meyer cited Rudolph's breakdown work and versatility as key reasons why the 32-year-old merits a Springbok call-up
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Former Springbok head coach Heyneke Meyer has publicly called for Bulls loose forward Jeandré Rudolph to be included in South Africa's touring squad for their three-Test Nations Championship campaign in Europe this November.
The Springboks are scheduled to face Italy in Turin on 7 November, France in Paris on 13 November, and Ireland in Dublin on 21 November.
**Rudolph Impresses in Champions Cup Rout**
Rudolph, 32, came off the bench during the Bulls' commanding 56-20 Investec Champions Cup victory over Stade Français at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday. He marked his appearance with a creative solo try, chipping over Stade Français wing Aisake Nawaqadrua, regathering the kick, and dotting down to cap a memorable individual moment.
Meyer, speaking to Rapport, highlighted Rudolph's consistency since rejoining the Bulls from the Cheetahs as a key reason for his selection case.
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"I think Jeandré is playing brilliant rugby at the moment. His technique at the breakdown is of the highest quality," said Meyer, who led the SWD Eagles to the Currie Cup First Division title earlier this year.
**Meyer Makes the Case for Rudolph**
The former Bok mentor pointed to Rudolph's specialist qualities as setting him apart in a crowded loose-forward pool.
"He can play six, seven and eight, but for me his greatest value is that he is an out-and-out specialist openside flank who is incredibly good over the ball," Meyer said. "His ability to steal balls and win turnovers puts him among the very best in the business."
Meyer acknowledged the competition for Springbok loose-forward berths is fierce, but maintained that Rudolph's profile makes him a compelling option.
"What makes Rudolph special, however, is his work on the ground, his good ball-carrying ability and his versatility," he said. "He is no longer one of the youngest players, but his current form is excellent. I believe he definitely deserves an opportunity to prove himself at a higher level."
Meyer also framed his argument with the 2027 Rugby World Cup in mind, warning that building squad depth at loosehead is a priority.
"Especially with the World Cup approaching, it is important to develop enough depth in case one of our established loose forwards gets injured," he added.
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Source: Briefly News
