Straruli takes gamble on Russell
Springbok coach Rudolf Straeuli has taken a huge gamble by including exciting young utility back Brent Russell at full-back for the weekend’s second Test against Wales in Cape Town.
Russell, who still has to start a Currie Cup or Super 12 game, was included after full-back Ricardo Loubscher was ruled out for two weeks because of a rib injury.
It was widely expected that Andre Pretorius, who was switched to full-back when Loubscher came off in the first Test, would again deputise or that Werner Greeff, the fly-half drafted into the squad, would make an appearance in the last line of defence.
But Russell, who does not have a strong boot but is a naturally gifted runner, is expected to have a similar impact as League convert Jason Robinson has had for England, even though the game might be a difficult one for his first full debut.
Rain is forecast to descend on the Mother City for the match, making the soggy Newlands pitch heavy and not suitable for a running game.
Straeuli also brought back Corne Krige to the flank position and De Wet Barry to inside centre, but created a surprise by retaining Bob Skinstad as captain for the game.
Russell, though, was the main focus of attention.
‘‘He can play scrum-half, fly-half and centre and has played at full-back, so we are comfortable to put him there,’’ said Straeuli.
South Africa won the first Test 34-19.
