White gambles on rookie back three

SPRINGBOK coach Jake White is gambling on a rookie back three for Saturday’s test with Ireland at Lansdowne Road (5pm).

In an already inexperienced back division (total 79 caps), Bevin Fortuin, Jaco Pretorius and Francois Steyn are all set to represent the Springboks for the first time against the Irish at full back and on the wings.

Pretorius has only recently re-converted from Sevens rugby to the 15-man game after captaining South Africa in 24 IRB Sevens events. Additionally, he plays his provincial rugby for the Golden Lions at centre.