Pollard, Cronje and Leyds back in Bok squad

EXPERIENCED flyhalf Handré Pollard, scrumhalf Ross Cronje and utility back Dillyn Leyds have been included in the Springbok touring squad for the Australasian leg of the Rugby Championship as coach Allister Coetzee opted for continuity.

Pollard has successfully completed his ankle injury rehabilitation and was selected in the place of Curwin Bosch, the young Sharks flyhalf who made his Springbok debut against Argentina in Port Elizabeth.

Cronje has established himself as the regular Springbok No 9 so far this season. He missed the trip to Salta but has recovered from his ankle injury and can be considered for the Test against Australia in Perth next Saturday.

Leyds, who covers wing and fullback, is back in the squad in the place of centre Francois Venter.

Venter, Bosch and Jano Vermaak have all been released back to their respective provinces.

Regarding the changes, Coetzee said: “Handré was really impressive during the two weeks he spent with us in Port Elizabeth. Even though he was fit and available for the match in Salta, we made a decision that another week of conditioning will be beneficial for him.

“I believe he is fit and ready to go and he will be utilised in a versatile role, covering centre too. He is the kind of player that really thrives in the Springbok environmen.”

Meanwhile, the Springboks will know the full extent of the rib injury to prop Coenie Oosthuizen by today. He is scheduled to undergo a scan later today. – ANA