Springboks Pollard and Papier have points to prove against Scots
South African rugby players Handre Pollard and Embrose Papier are looking to prove their form in an upcoming test match against Scotland. Coach Rassie Erasmus is set to make history by coaching his 55th match for the Springboks.
Why it matters
The match is significant for the Springboks' squad development ahead of the 2027 World Cup and marks a milestone for their head coach.
South Africa half-backs Handre Pollard and Embrose Papier have points to prove while head coach Rassie Erasmus will create history in a Nations Championship test against Scotland on Saturday.
Veteran fly-half Pollard has been off form with his club the Bulls. Renowned for brilliant goal kicking, he fluffed four attempts in a United Rugby Championship (URC) match last month.
Scrum-half Papier will wear the Springbok green and gold in Pretoria for the first time since 2018, the reward for an outstanding season with URC runners-up the Bulls.
Erasmus, the mastermind behind the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup triumphs, will be head coach of South Africa for a record 55th time, overtaking 2007 World Cup winner Jake White.
Fresh from a seven-try first-round win in Argentina, Scotland also have ambitions in a country where they have lost all seven previous tests against the Springboks.
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