Gold – Steyn would be valuable to Boks' World Cup cause

Steyn, who has been recovering from a chest injury he picked up during the Vodacom SupeRugby season, had been training with the Springboks before taking compassionate leave following the death of his brother three weeks ago.

Gold, having been assistant coach during the Springboks’ 2011 World Cup campaign, said Steyn brings more than just experience and versatility to the table.

“Frans Steyn could and would be incredibly valuable for the Springboks in the Northern Hemisphere. He’s played a number of seasons there, he’s versatile and goal kicking is going to be essential in the World Cup because the game changes as teams become more conservative and play a little less rugby,” Gold said.

“Penalties become critical and games are won on smaller margins and when the heat starts coming, and believe me it does when you get to the playoff stages, you need guys who have been there and done it. And couple that with the fact that this guy covers you out and out in three positions on the rugby field.”

“So – versatility, experience, form and leadership, Steyn ticks every box. If he doesn’t make it, I would respect the coach’s decision because there will be reasons why. Frans has been injured and that doesn’t count in his favour which I completely get. But he would be a fantastic asset to any international team,” Gold said.

“You ask the question like that, would any other team take him and I think most would snap him up. But I don’t know anything about the length of his injury at the moment, so he may not be available for selection.” 

The Springboks announce their squad for the World Cup on Friday evening.

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