Balding and unwanted records: The thoughts occupying the minds of Stick, Kolisi ahead of 3rd Test

"If you look closely, I'm balding at rapid pace," Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick said to illustrate the toil they are faced with as goals are set in motion for the World Champions.

The curious depth question and defence of the title are all at a stake during this and next year’s international window.

The full use of the 40-man-plus strong squad in precarious Tests against Wales has the Boks in a damned if you do, damned if you don't situation.

On Friday, Stick intimated to Bok captain Siya Kolisi that he was growing grey hair (talk about poking "The Bear") while he, on the other hand, was certified for balding status.

Kolisi's Springboks and Wales will meet in the decider at the Cape Town Stadium on Saturday (17:05).

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The job before the Springboks is to ensure that they leave this series with winning momentum going into The Rugby Championships next month.

"The more players perform, the more we get challenges when selecting our squads. And we are comfortable in that situation," Stick commented.

"We cannot be comfortable in our team."

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A big talking point has been at 9, with eclectic Jaden Hendrikse being given a starting berth ahead of renowned Faf de Klerk. Stick said they were merely paving a way for Hendrikse because de Klerk’s credentials don’t come by easily.

"We lose hair, don't we [because of selections]," Stick joked. "Some go grey," he joked pointing at Kolisi.

Jokes aside and the Boks are keen on a healthy Cape Town atmosphere this weekend. It’s the venue where they played the three Tests against the