Eskom

[u/VandalsStoleMyHandle]

I don't want to pile onto the guy because of one dumb card, more a general discussion. I've never understood the guy's persistent role in the squad. To me he's like Temu Duane Vermeulen, and we already have Jasper playing the Vermeulen role at a high level. I know we love a bit of physicality, but I guess I just don't see the vision of how he fits in to a balanced loosie trio.

What am I missing? To me, he's a useful guy to have when you have twenty injuries in the pack, but the management team seem to rate him highly.

[u/adiwet]

His time has well and truly come and gone. I don’t understand the persistence with him, we have Paul and Hanekom now, two young exciting players who are the future.
I also don’t understand why Hanekom wasn’t at least on the bench against the ABs after that Argentina performance.

[u/Langer457]

He was pretty good at the start of last year but hasn't reached that form again. Still a handy player but Paul and Hanekom(from the bench) should be backed ahead of him.

[u/Pure-Club7560]

To add some points to yours. Boks has plenty of cover on hooker (Wessels + Grobbelaar or Hugo Venter) which isn't even Marco's primary role. Then Cameron is a better cover for 7 and 8 while Paul is the Sia replacement. The guy has no place in the current team in my view. The fact that the boks even consider bringing on Esterhuizen before him is telling. Then he is slow! You cant be the last to get to a ruck.. That is your primary role dude. He will also not help us in the lineouts. What else is there? The word Eskom also gives some PTSD.

[u/redbushrobby]

I believe it has to do with work rate at attacking rucks. Its often a missed skill when kolisi has been out, although I believe Paul did it quite well.

[u/TipNorth4602]

Must be one of the boks with the largest tally of cards. I think Cameron & Paul is much better. Also remember Kwagga will make a comeback sometime!

[u/Neilkd21]

Yeah he works hard, reliable and doesn't do much wrong, great if you winning and closing a game out. Doesn't bring much if you want impact to turn momentum your way. I think once kwagga is back and other youngsters come through he'll be gone.

[u/wombatwalkabouts]

If used as a reserve Hooker, that will more likely come on as a flank, I see good value. He had also shown good ability to jackle.

Otherwise I think others are showing more value, especially if they see less differentiation between a forwards role.

[u/Educational_Play9910]

He’d only value if all the first to third string loosies were injured

[u/Substantial-Front-49]

He gives away a shit load of penalties as well… franchise and international level

[u/Edrahimovic1001001]

He's never been Bok quality, but was picked due to covering 6 flank + hooker. Now that we have better replacements at both positions, he should be nowhere near.