As the Springboks gear up for what many will deem their most challenging Test of their UK tour, the decision to keep England waiting until tomorrow to see what the team will look like, could deliver a psychological blow to the hosts ahead of Saturdays clash.
Typically, coach Rassie Erasmus has announced his squad early in the week, allowing his team to refocus and prepare for their own style of play rather than becoming preoccupied with their opponents.
However, after the convincing 32-15 victory over Scotland a match that saw multiple non-starters get a chance to showcase their abilities anticipation is mounting that Erasmus will unveil a full-strength line-up that mirrors the one which clinched the Rugby Championship in September. Making England wait keeps them on edge, especially regarding who will fill the scrumhalf, flyhalf, and fullback positions for the Springboks.
The composition of this spine will indicate how the world champions plan to dismantle the Steve Borthwick-coached Englishmen. Apart from the pack of forwards, the trio will be the most crucial cogs in the Boks' game plan. Here is where Erasmus must get it right not that he often makes mistakes in his selections.
Cobus Reinach's familiarity with England and the conditions, having played for Northampton Saints, could make him an ideal starter at Twickenham. He still possesses the running game necessary to quicken the Boks' play should they opt for attack, as seen in the 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final, but his box-kicking can also be pivotal in the expected aerial battle.
