While participating in the Rugby Unity podcast, Kitshoff expressed his views on the team's lineup changes.
"We’ll definitely see Jesse Kriel [selected] as a more experienced outside centre. I’m not sure who’s going to be at 12. I would love to see Ethan Hooker at 12," Kitshoff said. "I think he’s been amazing at wing for the Springboks."
Ethan Hooker, who previously donned the Bok No 12 jersey in Turin last year, has mostly been seen on the left wing in this year's Test matches. Additionally, Kitshoff hinted at a tactical inclusion in the flank position.
"I think Cameron Hanekom will come into the starting lineup at blindside flank just to fill the lineout-jumping option," he stated.
Kitshoff also touched on the potential challenges the Springboks might face against Australia, particularly at the lineout. He speculated that the Wallabies could apply pressure to disrupt the Bok's set-piece strength.
"If Australia really goes at the Springbok lineout, puts Malcolm [Marx] under pressure or, if Malcolm goes off, puts the second hooker under pressure, that’s where the Springbok attack normally falls apart because they don’t get into that rhythm," Kitshoff explained.
Despite these potential setbacks, Kitshoff remained confident in the traditional strengths of the Bok team. He detailed the strategic approach they intend to employ on the field at Optus Stadium.
"We’ll probably look at playing set-piece to set-piece, getting a good scrum penalty, kicking the ball into the 22, creating a lineout maul and then, from there, getting the big ball-carriers like Jasper [Wiese] and Malcolm around the corner to make sure they can get front-foot ball and attack from there," he elaborated.
This strategy underscores the Springboks’ reliance on strong set-piece play and their formidable forward pack to dominate possession and territory, setting the stage for a compelling showdown in Perth.
