Van der Westhuyzen gets Springbok call

Blue Bulls fullback Jaco van der Westhuyzen has been called into the Springbok squad following the serious injury suffered by centre Jean de Villiers.

De Villiers dislocated his shoulder during Tuesday’s 74-0 victory over Provincial side the Falcons and will be out of action for six months.

Van der Westhuyzen’s elevation is somewhat of a surprise, especially as it leaves the Boks with only one specialist inside centre in De Wet Barry.

Van der Westhuyzen can cover at flyhalf and fullback.

Coach Rudolf Straeuli confirmed van der Westhuyzen’s inclusion on Thursday morning after consultation with the national selectors and team management.

“Jaco has been part of the Springbok training group throughout the season and narrowly missed inclusion in the World Cup squad of 30 at the end of August. He is therefore familiar with the squad set up and should settle in quickly,” said Straeuli.

“We considered the option of calling in a specialist centre but opted for a player that brings versatility in that he can cover fullback and flyhalf and also offer another kicking option.

“We have two specialist centres in De Wet Barry and Jorrie Muller, while Werner Greeff and Jaque Fourie are both also able to play there, which gives us adequate cover in the midfield.”

The Boks lost their first choice centre Gcobani Bobo in the first warm-up game against Free State in Bloemfontein.

They open their World Cup against Uruguay on October 11.

Van der Westhuyzen is expected to join up with the squad in Durban later today.