Much better!
Thats the center combo that wins big matches!
Much better!
Thats the center combo that wins big matches!
2,193 posts
In a dramatic shake-up following a dismal performance in Johannesburg, Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has overhauled his lineup with 10 new faces for the upcoming clash against the Wallabies. This radical move comes as a direct response to the team's 38-22 defeat, with injuries also forcing Erasmus's hand.
Erasmus didn't mince words about the necessity of the changes. "We lost four players to injury last weekend, which obviously had an impact on a few of our selections, but we also know where we went wrong against Australia last week, so we made a few changes that we believe will offer us what we need for this game," he explained.
"We are determined to get things right this week," Erasmus declared, emphasizing the urgency of bouncing back.
Among the notable returns are Damian de Allende and Cheslin Kolbe, both recovered from injuries, set to bolster the backline that sees Grant Williams and Jesse Kriel (captain) as the only survivors from the previous game. The revamped squad aims to rectify last week's shortcomings, with Erasmus also reverting to the notorious 'Bomb Squad' 6-2 bench strategy to add depth and impact off the pine.
The starting XV includes stalwarts like Malcolm Marx, Ox Nche, and new addition Thomas du Toit in the front row, supported by RG Snyman and Ruan Nortje in the lock positions. The loose trio is rounded out by Marco van Staden, Franco Mostert, and Jean-Luc du Preez.
Erasmus's selection strategy also hints at a broader vision, with an eye on building depth and experience against top-tier teams. "It will be good for a few other guys to experience playing against one the top teams in the world, especially as we continue to build our squad depth," he noted, signaling strategic squad rotations.
The Springboks' bench looks robust with Marnus van der Merwe stepping in as the reserve hooker, and heavy hitters like Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager waiting in the wings to add firepower in the later stages of the game.
The Springboks are set to face the Wallabies on Saturday at DHL Stadium in Cape Town, with kickoff at 17:10 local time. The team is clearly aiming to turn the tide, fueled by the bitter taste of last week's defeat and a fervent desire to redeem themselves before their home crowd.
Springboks team to face the Wallabies:
Springboks: 15 Willie le Roux, 14 Canan Moodie, 13 Jesse Kriel (c), 12 Damian de Allende, 11 Cheslin Kolbe, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Grant Williams, 8 Jean-Luc du Preez, 7 Franco Mostert, 6 Marco van Staden, 5 Ruan Nortje, 4 RG Snyman, 3 Thomas du Toit, 2 Malcolm Marx, 1 Ox Nche
Replacements: 16 Marnus van der Merwe, 17 Boan Venter, 18 Wilco Louw, 19 Eben Etzebeth, 20 Lood de