Friday, 18th May 2007 at 11:41 am

The return of Ashwin Willemse

In the swirl of political chaos that engulfed the naming of the Springbok squad (and its 46th man), Ashwin Willemse slipped largely under the radar. But it won’t stay that way for long: the former South African player of the year is back after a run of injuries even Darren Anderton would have been proud of, and is in Bloemfontein this week training with the Bok squad members not involved in the Durban final.

And from training, he’ll probably graduate to a Test sooner rather than later, which will guarantee greater scrutiny than he’s had since his call-up. With so many players involved in a Super 14 final the week before a Test match, there’s an outside chance that Willemse will play in the England game next Saturday, allowing Habana, Pietersen and the Ndunganes a breather after a long start to the season.

Critics would question that inclusion, given that Willemse’s had just one half for the Lions in his comeback (scoring a try in defeat to the Cheetahs two weeks ago); supporters, however - of whom the coach is very much at the forefront - will remember an outstanding talent who was South African Player of the Year just two seasons ago, and represents a quick, awkward presence on the wing. He’ll have plenty of competition for his place, certainly, but a fit and firing Willemse is a definite boon for the Springboks. Watch that team list for the England game…