The Springboks are set to face the Wallabies at Optus Stadium in Perth this Sunday, with coach Rassie Erasmus making 13 changes to the team that played against the All Blacks in Baltimore. Prop Zach Porthen, who gets a rare start in the Boks' No 3 jersey, believes the rotated team are "hungrier than you think" as they prepare to take on the Wallabies. This match is also an opportunity for Porthen to impress Erasmus and his staff ahead of next year's Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Porthen, 22, has had a massive learning curve over the past 12 months under the tutelage of head coach Rassie Erasmus and scrum coach Daan Human. He was called up into the Bok set-up for their November tour of Europe last year, before making his debut against Japan. He also made four cameo appearances off the bench against England, Scotland, Argentina, and the All Blacks this year. Porthen is a dynamic ball-carrier who has made a big impact with ball in hand.
Despite enjoying a two-week breather since wrapping up their 3-1 series victory against New Zealand, Porthen made it clear that representing the green and gold provides all the motivation needed for a Test match. "This is Test rugby, and everyone that goes out on the field knows it means a lot to each player and the country," he said ahead of the Perth clash. The young front-rower is eager to get back on the field and show what the jersey means to him.
The fight for places in the Springbok squad, which boasts enviable depth, is going to be hectic over the next year. So when you get a chance, you have to take it. Porthen brushed off any fears of an emotional hangover following their epic series win over the All Blacks. He is focused on the task at hand and is not thinking about the past.
With his athleticism and mobility making him a standout prospect, there has been outside chatter regarding a potential positional transition to hooker—a shift Porthen remains open to, even if it is not currently on the cards. "I have never really thought about playing hooker," he said. "But if the coaches come up to me and say, 'Zach, we need you to do this...', I’ll put my hand up."
The Springboks' Test against the Wallabies in Perth holds significance for the team as they look to build momentum ahead of the Rugby World Cup. Erasmus's side will be looking to make a statement against the Wallabies, who are always a tough opponent. The match will provide valuable insights into the team's strengths and weaknesses.
The Springboks' victory over the All Blacks in the recent series has provided a boost to the team's confidence. However, Porthen and his teammates are aware that they need to stay focused and keep working hard to achieve their goals. The team's depth and talent will be on show in Perth, as they take on the Wallabies in a crucial Test match.
Key points
- Springboks' fringe players are eager to make an impact against the Wallabies in Perth.
- Zach Porthen is set to start in the Boks' No 3 jersey against the Wallabies.
- The match against the Wallabies provides an opportunity for the Springboks to build momentum ahead of the Rugby World Cup.
