Damian Willemse will start at flyhalf for the Springboks who say they remain focused despite Elton Jantjies’ exit from the squad in the build up to Saturday’s clash against Argentina in Buenos Aires. DYLAN JACK reports.

Jantjies was sent home from the Springboks’ base in Argentina to attend to “personal reports” amid accusations of inappropriate behaviour.

With Jantjies out of the squad, Willemse is highly likely to retain the No 10 jersey on Saturday after an assured performance in the victory over the Wallabies in Sydney.

Speaking from Buenos Aires on Monday, assistant coach Deon Davids said the Springboks are happy with Willemse’s growth in the position, after starting the season at fullback, while he also listed veteran Frans Steyn and scrumhalf Faf de Klerk as potential alternatives at flyhalf.

“In the last round, Damian started as Elton was injured and we felt that Damian had a good game. So, we are very happy with where we are with him,” said Davids.

“We are also lucky to have with us in the team the experience of Frans Steyn, who has played at flyhalf before. Faf has also played one or two games there.

“As a team, we adapt to the circumstances. We’ve done it in the past few games. We are really happy with where we are and with Damian in that position.”

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One of the major concerns around the Jantjies saga is that it could disrupt the Springboks as they head into the decisive final two rounds of the Rugby Championship.

South Africa, Australia and Argentina are all tied with nine points on the log, while New Zealand are just two ahead in first place.

“We have dealt with the situation in a professional manner. As a team, we understand where our focus needs to be. I can assure you that it’s on to the big challenge that awaits us against Argentina,” said Davids.

“We have had some mixed results against them here. They are a tough team to beat. All of our focus has gone into our preparation to get the reward we want from this game.

“We know the competition is quite close among the teams. The next two games are going to be like finals. That is how we are approaching it. So, we have needed to be clear cut in terms of our preparation and what will be important for us.”

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