During a recent media briefing, Erasmus shed light on Mbonambi's fitness challenges.
"Bongi had a knee [injury] and then it’s a lower-back thing,"Erasmus explained, highlighting the ongoing communication with the injured player,
"He keeps us up to date and we WhatsApp every now and then to ask how he’s doing. But obviously the Sharks medical team must clear him first."
Erasmus outlined a cautious approach to Mbonambi's return, suggesting a gradual reintegration into competitive rugby. "We’ll have to get him in and see him playing maybe a few Currie Cup games, and then maybe we can consider him again," he added. The uncertainty around Mbonambi’s exact return date remains, as Erasmus noted that a recent assessment had been overly optimistic.
Meanwhile, Jan-Hendrik Wessels is being groomed as a key reserve hooker, amidst formidable competition from his teammates. Erasmus clarified Wessels' position, "Jan-Hendrik Wessels is going to develop into a specialist reserve hooker," indicating strategic planning in utilizing his skills primarily in the hooker position.
The coach also took a moment to address potential nepotism chuckles regarding André-Hugo Venter’s involvement. "And, ja – everybody’s going to say it’s my son-in-law! – André-Hugo Venter is still there," Erasmus remarked, reinforcing the strategic choices made for team composition based on current game needs and player development.
In conclusion, Erasmus expressed a mix of caution and optimism about Mbonambi’s comeback to international rugby, emphasizing the necessity of match fitness, "In the long run, Bongi, I know is really close to returning again. But Bongi has to play some proper matches now and get it under his belt before we can again look at him." As the Springboks gear up for another epic showdown with the All Blacks, the team's depth and strategic preparation under Rassie Erasmus are clear, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.
