Rassie Erasmus: All Blacks series a marathon, but Springboks desperate to land first blow

Grant Williams' selection as the starting scrumhalf for the Springboks in their upcoming All Blacks showdown is a testament to his exceptional skill set. While his blistering speed and sharp distribution may initially catch the eye, Williams is more than just a dynamic runner. He embodies the complete package at scrumhalf for the test match against the All Blacks at Ellis Park on Saturday.

Williams offers the Springboks a blend of tactical control, making him an ideal fit for the famed rush defence that the team is known for. His kicking game is another crucial aspect of his game, as he is arguably the best box kicker for the Springboks. Williams' boot provides the team with exceptional height and precision, allowing them to land the ball in the contestable zone and create chaos before launching counter-attacks.

Veteran halfback Cobus Reinach has been instrumental in suffocating the All Blacks with his aerial squeeze, but his form this year has been inconsistent due to injuries. However, having Reinach come off the bench will provide the Springboks with valuable quality and experience to see out the game against their rivals.

Starting Williams also sets the tempo for the Test match. As the fastest halfback in the game, his service and sniping around the fringes keep defenders guessing, resulting in a multitude of tries scored by attacking the spaces around the rucks. Williams' proven track record of finding the whitewash against the All Blacks, combined with his speed and anticipation, makes him the perfect candidate to sweep behind the Boks' defense.

Defensively, Williams is a force to be reckoned with. The Springboks generally defend from the outside in, targeting the inside attackers and leaving space on the outside. If the All Blacks manage to break through the Springboks' rush, Williams will be the player tasked with swiftly making up the metres to defend that space. With the Boks being the best team in the world at scrambling on defense, Williams is a No 9 who can hold his own in a one-on-one contest.

In conclusion, Grant Williams is not just a fast track star; he is the complete modern scrumhalf. The All Blacks will have sleepless nights trying to contain his complete skill set, making his selection as the starting scrumhalf a significant advantage for the Springboks in their crucial test match.