Rassie Erasmus has moved swiftly to bolster his forward options ahead of the Rugby's Greatest Rivalry series, calling up Deon Fourie just days after the 39-year-old made his return from a lengthy injury layoff.
Fourie's last appearance in a Springbok jersey came in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand at the Stade de France in Paris. His comeback for the Stormers in their series opener against the All Blacks on Friday night evidently convinced Erasmus that the utility forward—who can operate as both a loose forward and hooker—still has something to offer at Test level.
The World Cup winner will join the squad in Johannesburg on Tuesday morning as the Springboks regroup following their return from Argentina in two groups over Sunday and Monday. His inclusion adds considerable depth to Erasmus' forward pack for the four-match series, which begins at Ellis Park on 22 August before moving to Cape Town, Johannesburg again, and finally Baltimore in September.
Experience in a high-stakes series
Fourie's versatility has long been valued by Erasmus, and his ability to cover multiple positions could prove decisive in a condensed schedule that will test squad depth. The inaugural series against New Zealand represents one of the most ambitious fixtures on the international calendar, and the presence of a player who has delivered on the biggest stage may offer tactical flexibility in the closing stages of tight matches.
The Springboks will finalise their preparation in Johannesburg over the coming week, with selection for the Ellis Park opener likely to reflect the balance Erasmus seeks between continuity and fresh legs after the Rugby Championship campaign. Fourie's recall suggests the coaching staff are prepared to lean on proven experience when the stakes are highest.