Springboks Revamp Squad for Crucial Rematch Against All Blacks

The Springboks have made significant changes to their lineup following a disappointing 24-17 defeat to the All Blacks at Eden Park in Auckland. This loss places added pressure on South Africa as they prepare for a crucial rematch on Saturday, September 13, 2024, at Sky Stadium in Wellington. A victory is essential if they hope to retain their Rugby Championship title.

Cobus Reinach has been named to start at halfback, partnering with the dynamic Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. The Springboks will also see the inclusion of Ethan Hooker on the wing, marking his first significant outing at this level. In a strategic shift, Damian Willemse moves to inside centre, while Canan Moodie transitions to the No 13 jersey. The experienced Cheslin Kolbe will occupy the opposite wing, with Aphelele Fassi taking the position of fullback.

The back row sees the return of Jasper Wiese at No 8 following his suspension, complemented by captain Siya Kolisi and Pieter-Steph du Toit. In the second row, Lood de Jager replaces Eben Etzebeth, joining Ruan Nortje as the locking pair, after the Springboks struggled in the lineouts during their last match.

Head coach Jacques Erasmus has opted for a 5-3 split between forwards and backs on the bench, although this could shift to a 6-2 setup. The bench includes scrumhalf Grant Williams, first-five Manie Libbok, and versatile player Andre Esterhuizen.

“This is an exciting team, which we believe will provide us with the forward power we require and spark in the backline against a quality All Blacks side,” Erasmus stated. He acknowledged the areas needing improvement, asserting, “We know where we went wrong last week and what we must fix, and we’ll leave no stone unturned to correct those errors. There’s no doubt that we have to deliver a proper 80-minute performance to do well, and we will give everything to achieve that.”

As preparations intensify, the All Blacks are expected to announce their lineup on Thursday. The upcoming match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, as both teams aim for dominance in the Rugby Championship.

Kick-off is scheduled for 19:05 local time on Saturday, with the Springboks fielding the following team:

1. Ox Nche
2. Malcolm Marx
3. Thomas du Toit
4. Lood de Jager
5. Ruan Nortje
6. Pieter-Steph du Toit
7. Siya Kolisi (captain)
8. Jasper Wiese
9. Cobus Reinach
10. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
11. Ethan Hooker
12. Damian Willemse
13. Canan Moodie
14. Cheslin Kolbe
15. Aphelele Fassi

Replacements:
16. Marnus van der Merwe
17. Jan-Hendrik Wessels
18. Wilco Louw
19. RG Snyman
20. Kwagga Smith
21. Grant Williams
22. Manie Libbok
23. Andre Esterhuizen

With both teams poised for a fierce battle, fans eagerly await what promises to be an electrifying match in Wellington.