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Johannesburg - The choice between Francois Louw and Jaco Kriel at openside flank must depend on the conditions the Springboks face in Salta on Saturday.
That is according to former Springbok captain Tiaan Strauss.
Strauss says if South Africa play on a hard field like Ellis Park, Kriel should be in the starting XV. If not, stick with Louw.
The debate around who wears the No 6 jersey for the Boks have intensified over the last couple of months as Louw struggles for form while Kriel has had several standout performances for the Lions.
Strauss believes the current loose trio get to the ball quick enough, but he has concerns in other areas.
"If we look at the weekend's Test in Mbombela, everybody could see Warren (Whiteley) is very mobile and quick. With regards to Francois, we know his form is not where it should be and what we have become used to," Strauss told Netwerk24.
"Oupa (Mohoje) was good on defence, but I'm not sure if he has enough speed. However, I must say he did very well against Argentina."
Regarding the debate between Louw and Kriel, Strauss said there weren't really many other loose forwards that stood out.
"I think Francois is a better option when you play against bigger forwards and then Jaco can come on later," he added.
"We have to increase our intensity and eagerness for the return Test. We have to be a lot better and make fewer mistakes. If we do that we can beat them by 15 points."
