The Springboks Bomb Squad will look different moving forwards. Following imminent changes to the coveted bench under Rassie Erasmus.

The ‘Bomb Squad” is set to undergo changes following Springbok legend Steven Kitshoffs retirement.

Therefore, Rassie will be making enforced changes as a result. Meaning, the ‘Bomb Squad” will undergo a bit of a revamp too.

IMMINENT CHANGES TO RESULT IN NEW-LOOK BOMB SQUAD

As mentioned, Kitshoff has retired.

Therefore, Ox Nche is set to start moving forward. In turn, a spot on the ‘Bomb Squad’ has opened up.

Usually, Kitshiff and Nche were rotated. So, now it is an open battle for the likes of Gerhard Steenekamp, Wilco Louw, Vincent Koch and Thomus du Toit. Therefore, four props will fight for two spots, each with a strong staik to their claim. Moreover, all four players will have a chance to prove their worth to Erasmus and the Springboks this season.

However, Steenakamp is the favourite to step up into the number 17 jersey. Meanwhile, Koch will likely retain the number 18 jersey. Interestingly, Louw is well positioned to replace Louw in the future.

Finally, du Toit will do his best to fight for this spot too this season.

Meaning, Erasmus will rotate his squad this season. Test matches against Italy and Georgia present Erasmus with a chance to blood new talent into the Springboks. Furthermore, emerging stars will get some test rugby exposure.

LIKELY SPRINGBOKS BENCH

16. Malcom Marx/Bongi Mbonambi

17. Gerhard Steenekamp

18. Vincent Koch

19. RG Snyman

20. Marco van Staden

21. Kwagga Smith

22. Grant Williams/Jaden Hendrikse

23. Damien Willemse/Aphelele Fassi

The Springboks ‘Bomb Squad’will likely be presented in 6-2 split. Additionally, if the 7-1 split returns, expect both lock replacements to feature on the bench (with Lood de Jager or Ruan Nortje being added). Meanwhile, in the rare event of a 5-3 split, you can expect either Manie Libbok or Sacha-Feiberg MngomeZulu on the bench with Lukhanyo Am and Edwil Van Der Merwe staking a claim too.