The shocking absence of Lions standout Sanele Nohamba from the Springboks’ opening Test lineup was announced. We investigate the possible reasons he was omitted.
Sanele Nohamba, the top player for the Lions, was one player who appeared very certain to be included in the Springboks’ expanded squad during the year.
The adaptable back made his debut in senior rugby as a nimble scrumhalf with a potent kicking stroke. The 25-year-old did, however, make the intriguing switch to flyhalf this season, and it has paid off handsomely.
One of the best players in South Africa, Nohamba gave the Lions a genuine spark at goal number ten. His precise goal-kicking has also remained a staple of his style.
Nohamba undoubtedly attracted the attention of the Springbok coaches, as evidenced by the fact that he was invited to participate in early alignment camps in the first half of the season.
Still, it was unclear where the Springbok coaches would put him when the international season started.
Considering that Nohamba only recently made the permanent transition to the flyhalf position, it would be a huge ask on the part of the Springbok management staff to consider him as such.
His size might also be a problem in intensely physical Test matches. Even so, given the impact he could provide off the bench, his X factor and versatility were seen as a noteworthy drawback.
OVERLOOKED BY THE SPRINGBOKS: SANELE NOHAMBA?
The Springboks’ first significant Test team of the year was unveiled this past weekend, and while there weren’t many big surprises, Nohamba’s absence was notable.
It should be mentioned that Nohamba recently took a hard blow to the head, and while there was no mention of an ailment, it’s probable that this concussion kept him out of the running at this time.
The Springboks’ season will begin on June 22 against Wales. On July 6 and 13, respectively, they will play back-to-back Test matches in Pretoria and Durban against Ireland, who are rated second in the world.
Following this, on July 20, the Springboks will play Portugal in a historic first Test in Bloemfontein; perhaps at this point, Nohamba will make a comeback.
