Johannesburg – Deon Fourie’s inclusion as cover at hooker is one of the biggest surprises in the Springbok matchday 23 that will face the Wallabies this weekend in the second of their back-to-back Rugby Championship matches in Australia.
Once upon a time, in a rugby squad far, far away, Fourie did pack down at hooker; nevertheless, he is now more commonly identified with playing on the wing than in the No. 2 jersey. This was certainly the case for the 35-year-old during the Stormers’ United Rugby Championship title run.
Then, while playing in the loose, Fourie terrorized the opposition at the contact point and breakdown. It was a consistently strong performance that drew the attention of the Bok selectors.
But now, with the hooker position decimated by injury, a lack of form, and probably some short-sightedness on the part of the Boks, Fourie will don the No. 16 jersey and cover for Malcolm Marx, who returns to the starting XV in lieu of Joseph Dweba, who was dropped.
Bok coach Jacques Nienaber was at pains to clarify that while the decision is not ideal, he and his management are confident that Fourie will perform well at hooker against the Australians when the time comes.
“Fourie is a player that we are maybe keeping an eye on to see if he can make the World Cup (next year in France),” Nienaber added.
We believe he can play a role comparable to that of Schalk Brits (at the 2019 World Cup). He is someone who can play hooker and assist as a loose forward for us.
“Before the first Test against the All Blacks (in Nelspruit), Deon had been practising in both positions due to Bongi Mbonambi’s injury. He had been dividing his time 50/50 on being a hooker and being a loosie.
“However, after Bongi’s accident, he has been focusing solely on being a hooker. He is someone we have faith in.
“Joseph performed well for us in his two appearances, and I believe he gained valuable experience.
There were numerous great aspects of his performance, and there are a few minor areas where he may improve.
“Now that Deon has his chance, we are eager to see what he can contribute.”
It will be Fourie’s second Test appearance for South Africa. The contest will begin at 11.30 a.m. on Saturday.