Dyantyi is a risk worth taking for some - despite Erasmus revelation

After South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus revealed that it was unlikely that Aphiwe Dyantyi will make the World Cup this year because of injury, there are some that still have not given up hope on the winger making it to Japan.

The 2018 World Breakthrough Player of the Year has not played for the Springboks in 2019 due to a hamstring injury, but is hugely popular amongst fans after last year.

That is why there are still fans on Twitter that think that it is worth taking a risk with the winger for the World Cup. This is partly down to his reputation, but also down to the alternatives should he not go.

While Cheslin Kolbe and S’bu Nkosi look to have secured their spots in Japan next month, Makazole Mapimpi has not won over all fans yet, and some feel that it is worth taking a gamble with the Lions winger instead. Furthermore, Willie Le Roux has not necessarily displayed his best form over the last month, meaning Kolbe may move to fullback.

However, with some players out of form, the necessity will be to have fit alternatives, and if Dyantyi will not be up to full fitness at the beginning of the tournament, Erasmus could find himself stretched.

Although the All Blacks loom in their pool, some have also suggested that it may be worth a gamble with Dyantyi for the knockout stages, whilst fielding other wingers before then.

Obviously selecting Dyantyi would be a risk that could backfire, which is the case with all risks, and that is probably why Erasmus seems to be veering towards not selecting him. But that does not mean that all fans agree.

This is what has been said:

Some fans have also factored in the fact that, despite having a brilliant 2018, Dyantyi has not yet proven himself enough on the international stage to take this risk.

A comparison has been made to Australia and David Pocock, who is also struggling with injuries. The flanker has been an exceptional player for the Wallabies over the past ten years, and worth taking a risk for. Dyantyi, on the other hand, does not yet have that reputation in South Africa, which is all the more reason why some want to look at other options.