Hanekom was one of South Africa’s standout performers in the hard-fought Test in Buenos Aires, producing an energetic all-round display and scoring the crucial try that helped the Springboks secure their 12th consecutive victory.
Hanekom Steps Up in Buenos Aires
The Bulls loose forward delivered arguably his most complete performance in a Springbok jersey.
Hanekom carried the ball 13 times, ranking third among all players in the match, while also making his presence felt at the breakdown and working tirelessly in defence.
His biggest contribution came in the 63rd minute, when he crossed the try line to give South Africa a decisive advantage in a tightly contested encounter.
The performance was particularly significant considering Argentina’s physical approach and the fact that the Pumas have proven to be a difficult opponent for the Springboks in recent years.
However, Hanekom’s display was not without its mistakes.
He conceded an early penalty for a high tackle, allowing Argentina to open their scoring through Santiago Carreras. He was also penalised again early in the second half.
With the final margin only seven points, those errors could easily have become costly.
Erasmus Refuses to Declare a New No. 8
Despite Hanekom’s impressive showing, Erasmus rejected suggestions that the performance had suddenly changed the Springboks’ selection hierarchy at No. 8.
Asked whether Hanekom had “opened up” the position, Erasmus responded firmly:
“It didn’t open up.”
The Springboks coach made it clear that Jasper Wiese remains the team’s first-choice No. 8.
“Jasper Wiese is our clear number one at eight,” Erasmus explained, while acknowledging the value Hanekom brings to the squad.
He added that Hanekom had performed particularly well against an Argentina side that has previously caused South Africa problems.
Springboks Have Plenty of Options
Erasmus’ comments also highlighted the extraordinary depth available to the Springboks.
Alongside Wiese and Hanekom, the coach mentioned several players who could potentially operate at No. 8, including Elrigh Louw, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Paul de Villiers, Siya Kolisi, André Esterhuizen and Marco van Staden.
That competition means Hanekom is not simply fighting for a starting jersey — he is competing against some of the most versatile players in international rugby.
Nevertheless, his latest performance will strengthen his case for further involvement.
Hanekom Continuing to Develop
Rather than placing additional pressure on the youngster, Erasmus appears focused on Hanekom’s development.
The coach praised the loose forward for becoming increasingly comfortable within the Springbok system and highlighted his growing composure and understanding of the team’s structures.
“He’s starting to settle in nicely in the team,” Erasmus said. “He’s starting to be calm and understanding what we’re trying to do.”
For Hanekom, that may be the most important message of all.
He does not need to force his way to the top of the depth chart overnight. Continued performances of this quality could gradually turn him into an increasingly important member of the Springboks squad.
With South Africa building towards major Test challenges and the 2027 Rugby World Cup on the horizon, Hanekom’s development could become an intriguing storyline for the national team.
