The Vodacom Bulls are resting several Springboks for Sunday’s fixture, including fly-half Handre Pollard. The selection of Kade Wolhuter ahead of Keagan Johannes sparked several questions from the media on Friday.
Johan Ackermann explained: "We still have a lot of faith in Keagan. Last season he was moved to 10 because of injuries, but this is his first season where he’s trained properly as a fly-half and had a full pre-season there."
"He’s competing for both nine and 10 in our selection meetings, and we have to be fair to him."
"Kade is a natural 10; that’s his position. He’s trained well, he’s settled in with how we want to play, and he’s now had a few weeks with us."
"He’s played at a high level before, so it’s not like we’re throwing in a young guy for the first time. This is his opportunity, and we want to see how he goes against one of the best teams."
Ackermann once again emphasised that competition for places remains non-negotiable.
"If you look at the Springboks, you’re never certain you’re going to play a Test. No one is guaranteed a jersey. Players must play their best to stay there, and that’s the environment we want."
"Kade gets his chance now, and Keagan must keep challenging, and he will get opportunities again."