Ahead of November, when the Springboks tour takes place, local derbies within the United Rugby Championship (URC) offer several players a chance to catch the attention of head coach Rassie Erasmus and strengthen their chances for a spot in the national squad.
Matches between the Bulls and Lions will take place on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld stadium (starting at 13:30), and Stormers versus Sharks at DHL Stadium (starting at 16:00). These intense confrontations serve as an important test for athletes hoping to make the Bok squad for the end-of-year matches.
Since the Nations Cup will bring world champions to the Northern Hemisphere for matches against Italy (November 7), France (November 13), and Ireland (November 21), strong performances in these derbies and the remaining October fixtures could be decisive for those competing for a place in the team.
United Rugby Championship
IOL Sport has reviewed five players who can demonstrate their abilities on Saturday.
Paul de Villiers: Breakdown impact
Although De Villiers is not yet a confirmed Springbok player, he could strengthen his position for inclusion in November by showing strong play in the breakdown, defense, and attack against the Sharks on Saturday. The young forward made a big impression after being included in the Springboks squad, and another outstanding performance, especially in ball work, could guarantee him a place in Erasmus's plans. Playing alongside his national captain in the Stormers forward trio, De Villiers is likely to be even more motivated.
Quan Horn: Versatility and attacking threat
Horn continues to establish himself as one of the most interesting players in the Lions backline due to his versatility, attacking instincts, and ability to create opportunities, making him a valuable asset. His chances in the Springboks setup have been limited, but he can use Saturday as a timely reminder of what he is capable of on the field. The fullback will play a crucial role against the Bulls at Loftus Versfeld, where confident play under pressure could strengthen his position for further involvement with the Springboks. He will face intense hits, and his safety under them, as the last man in defense, will be severely tested.
Morne van den Berg: Scrumhalf competition
Van den Berg had a good international season for the Springboks, particularly in the last two matches during the Rugby World Cup. However, the return of Springboks number 9s will make the competition for a spot in the tour more difficult. Therefore, the scrumhalf will strive to remind Erasmus of his qualities as the Lions prepare for a tough derby in Gauteng. His accurate distribution, penetrating runs, and ability to dictate tempo could prove decisive on Saturday.
Johan Grobbelaar: Hooker depth
Grobbelaar intends to showcase himself in the Bulls versus Lions match, particularly through his work in set pieces and open play. The hooker's accuracy in set pieces, physical strength, and ability to contribute in open play will be important in the Jo'burg derby. This gives him an ideal opportunity to strengthen his claim for a reserve hooker spot in the Springboks for November, as there is no clear second commander for Malcolm Marx. Grobbelaar is determined to maintain his excellent form in the URC on Saturday.
Vusi Moyo: A test at flyhalf
Number 10 will get a valuable opportunity to impress when the Sharks meet the Stormers in Cape Town. The coastal derby promises to be a physical test, and strong all-around play, especially in defense and with his kicking game, could help the young fullback attract attention. At only 20 years old, he appears confident and composed, and in the last two matches, he has shown he can handle URC pressure. However, the match in Cape Town against the Stormers will be his biggest test, and if he can guide the Sharks, it will significantly help him advance in discussions about inclusion in the Bok squad.