Rassie Erasmus’ selection for Italy isn’t about risk, but reward for the Springboks’ growing depth, writes MARK KEOHANE.

Writing for TimesLIVE, Keohane says Erasmus’s match 23 reflects “reward and trust in the quality of squad players rather than risk.”

Only four starters remain from the epic win over France in Paris, but seven of the famed “super subs” are retained, along with hooker Johan Grobbelaar.

Zach Porthen starts his second Test at tighthead, again the youngest in the professional era, while Wilco Louw’s presence on the bench “is the greatest support crutch” for the 21-year-old.

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Marco van Staden shifts to No 8, showcasing the Bok coach’s fascination with versatility.

“That’s some depth,” Keohane notes, with Siya Kolisi, Kwagga Smith and others all capable of covering multiple loose-forward roles.

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The backline combination of Ethan Hooker and Canan Moodie is another Erasmus experiment worth watching. Both have shone as wings, but their pairing in midfield could, says Keohane, “have the authority of De Villiers and Fourie or De Allende and Kriel.”

“Erasmus has never been shy to reward talent,” Keohane adds. “For some, this selection may seem risky, but for him it’s a statement of faith in the future – and the squad that can chase a third successive World Cup title.”

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