Duane Vermeulen backs Bok loose-forward depth

He was speaking ahead of Saturday’s Nations Championship clash against Scotland at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, with kick-off at 17:40. 

Vermeulen highlighted the progress of players such as Cameron Hanekom, who earned only his second Test cap against England. 

He hopes the young No.8 will continue to receive opportunities to grow at international level.

"We're in a position where we're a bit of a spoiled for choice with our loose forward department. I think there's a lot of guys you can pick from, so I'm not singling one guy out, but I think it's a good group and they're really pushing each other to be the best player in those specific positions," said Vermeulen

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"But I think everyone is working really well in their all-round game and pushing each other really hard. He got us opportunity and hopefully there's plenty more to come. They are really skilful and well-adapted players in URC and hopefully they can play a hell of a lot more tests."

Vermeulen does not believe the Springboks are taking a gamble by selecting a side featuring a number of players with limited Test experience. 

He adds that the coaches have complete confidence in the group and expects the players to embrace the challenge against Scotland.

The former Bok No 8, has warned that Scotland should not be underestimated as he pointed to Glasgow Warriors’ United Rugby Championship final victory over the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld in 2024 as proof that Scottish teams are capable of producing top performances in South African conditions. 

He says Scotland’s threat is not limited to their dangerous backs, with their physical forwards and relentless work rate expected to provide a stern examination.

Evan Roos has been given another opportunity to impress after an outstanding United Rugby Championship season, where he finished as the competition’s leading try-scorer in the regular season with 12 tries. 

Although he featured in only one Test last year against Italy, Vermeulen says the coaches have invested significant time in helping the Bulls loose forward develop into a more complete player.