Backline worries for Bok coach

Cape Town - Springbok coach Heyneke Meyer has expressed concern over continuity in his backline ahead of the Rugby Championship.

In an interview with Beeld, Meyer expressed satisfaction about his forward pack but admitted he is worried about things at the back.

“I’m worried about Fourie (du Preez) being out. Also among the flyhalves, Morné (Steyn) and Pat (Lambie) haven’t played a lot in the last while.

“I’m happy with the forwards. But we lost continuity in the backline after the June Tests.”
Meyer must decide who will start in the injured Du Preez’s place at scrumhalf, with Ruan Pienaar, Francois Hougaard and Cobus Reinach the three candidates.

He must also decide on a midfield combination with skipper Jean de Villiers back in the picture after missing the June Tests due to injury.

“Jan Serfontein was brilliant against Wales and Scotland, but hasn’t played with Damian de Allende or Jean. And Damian and Jean must prove their fitness this week. JP Pietersen has left for Japan and Jaque Fourie is not available, so we’re under pressure at outside centre.”

The Boks start their Rugby Championship campaign against Argentina at Loftus Versfeld on August 16.