The Springboks may have found a new answer at scrumhalf, but Grant Williams’ return from injury is set to make the position even more competitive.
Morne van den Berg has taken his opportunity with both hands during the Springboks’ recent campaign, emerging as one of the biggest winners from the team’s series against the All Blacks.
The 28-year-old capped his impressive run with a Man of the Match performance in the final Test in Baltimore, further strengthening his case for a regular role in the No 9 jersey.
Van den Berg making his case
Earlier in the season, Rassie Erasmus indicated that Cobus Reinach and Grant Williams were among the leading options at scrumhalf.
However, Van den Berg’s performances have changed the conversation.
The scrumhalf has shown plenty of qualities that fit the Springboks’ demanding style. His defensive work is aggressive, he is fearless around the breakdown and he has the ability to create problems for opposition defences with his running.
His kicking game has also added another dimension, while his quick distribution allows South Africa to move the ball with greater speed.
Van den Berg even provides an additional place-kicking option, giving the coaching staff another string to their bow.
With Reinach now 36 and having produced mixed performances at times this season, Van den Berg appears to have taken advantage of the opening created by the changing dynamics at scrumhalf.
Grant Williams adds another dimension
The biggest boost for the Springboks is that Van den Berg’s emergence does not come at the expense of squad depth.
Grant Williams has recovered from injury and is now ready to return, giving Erasmus another proven option for the remainder of the season.
Williams’ availability could make the scrumhalf selection battle particularly intriguing. Rather than simply filling a gap, his return means the Springboks can choose between different skill sets as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
And the competition does not end there.
South Africa can also call upon experienced scrumhalf Faf de Klerk, while Jaden Hendrikse and Haashim Pead provide further options.
Van den Berg enjoying his breakthrough
Speaking after his standout performance in Baltimore, Van den Berg described representing the Springboks against the All Blacks as a dream come true.
The scrumhalf was particularly proud of scoring a try in such a high-profile Test and helping South Africa secure another memorable result against their traditional rivals.
His performances have now given Erasmus and his coaching staff another major selection decision to consider.
With Williams back and several other scrumhalves waiting in the wings, the Springboks appear to be entering the next stage of the season with impressive depth at No 9.
Springboks’ remaining fixtures in 2026
The Springboks still have several major Tests ahead, beginning with a clash against Australia in Perth before their end-of-year campaign in Europe.
Wallabies vs Springboks
Sunday, 27 September
Optus Stadium, Perth
Kick-off: 11:30
Italy vs Springboks
Saturday, 7 November
Allianz Stadium, Turin
Kick-off: 16:00
France vs Springboks
Friday, 13 November
Stade de France, Paris
Kick-off: 22:00
Ireland vs Springboks
Saturday, 21 November
Aviva Stadium, Dublin
Kick-off: 19:30
Nations Championship Finals Weekend
27–29 November
Twickenham Stadium, London
Kick-off: TBC
The question now is clear: Has Morne van den Berg done enough to become the Springboks’ first-choice scrumhalf, or will Grant Williams’ return change the pecking order?
