The Springboks have announced their squad for the opening Test against the All Blacks in Johannesburg. The match, part of rugby’s ‘Greatest Rivalry’, will see Pieter-Steph du Toit captain South Africa from the blindside flank. Regular captain Siya Kolisi was not selected for this fixture.
Kolisi has been recovering from a hamstring injury sustained earlier this month during a 17-10 victory over Argentina on August 8. Coach Rassie Erasmus stated that while Kolisi trained well, the decision was made to select Paul de Villiers, who has been performing strongly. This approach is intended to be precautionary for Kolisi’s return, with three more Tests against the All Blacks scheduled in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Baltimore, USA.
Springboks Line-up Details
The starting front row for South Africa includes Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, and Wilco Louw. Louw will play at tighthead prop, while Thomas du Toit is not among the match-day 23. In the loose forward trio, Paul de Villiers, captain du Toit, and Jasper Wiese are set to feature.
The halves combination will see Grant Williams and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, with Feinberg-Mngomezulu starting at first five-eighth. Damian de Allende is slated to make his 100th Test appearance at second five-eighth, partnering with Jesse Kriel in the midfield. The back three consists of Cheslin Kolbe, Kurt-Lee Arendse, and Damian Willemse.
Only Feinberg-Mngomezulu and lock Eben Etzebeth retain their starting positions from South Africa’s most recent Test against Argentina. Nche will be starting for the first time since the Nations Championship victory over England in July.
All Blacks Squad Announced
For the All Blacks, Ardie Savea will captain the side, with Cam Roigard at scrum-half and Will Jordan on the wing. Damian McKenzie returns at full-back after recovering from an ankle injury sustained during a warm-up match against the Sharks in Durban.
The All Blacks‘ head coach Dave Rennie has opted for a blend of experienced players and newer talent. Anton Segner and Josh Moorby are among those who will face South Africa for the first time. Rennie noted that the initial franchise games have helped newer players adapt to the style of South African teams.
Rennie acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating that the Test series will be a significant step up. He highlighted the strength of the Springboks, who are currently ranked first globally and will be playing at their home ground in front of their supporters.
Erasmus anticipates a demanding contest, describing the All Blacks as a quality and well-coached team. He expects an 80-minute grind and emphasized the importance of capitalizing on opportunities and maintaining discipline. The coach added that the squad is excited for the match.
The All Blacks team includes Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, and Tyrel Lomax in the front row. The locks are Josh Lord and Fabian Holland, with Tupou Vaa’i, Luke Jacobsen, and captain Ardie Savea forming the loose forward trio. The backline features Cam Roigard, Ruben Love, Josh Moorby, Jordie Barrett, Quinn Tupaea, Will Jordan, and Damian McKenzie at full-back.
The Springboks have won five of their last six Tests against the All Blacks, including a 43-10 victory in Wellington last September. The first Test is scheduled for Saturday at Ellis Park.
Source: allblacks.com
