Nortje, recently included in Rassie Erasmus’ Bok squad for the 2024 Rugby Championship Tests in Australia, has emerged as a potential long-term candidate for the world champions’ No 5 lock position.
With key incumbents Franco Mostert and Lood de Jager sidelined due to injuries, the Vodacom Bulls skipper faces a challenging but promising opportunity in the Bok setup. Despite stiff competition domestically and within the team, Nortje has earned the confidence of Erasmus. Van Heerden earned his first Bok alignment camp invitation in March, following several standout performances for the DHL Stormers over the past two seasons. Traditionally a No 4 lock, he has adapted to calling the lineout, solidifying his role in the tight five.Pieterse commended both players for their exceptional set-piece skills and immense work rate around the park.
He also praised Van Heerden’s dedication to improving his lineout skills: “With the way he speaks, you can hear he’s a lineout student and always wants to get better. Him and Ruan will be around, and from a depth perspective, we are lucky in that regard.