Particle.news
Get it on Google Play
Download on the App Store
84 ARTICLES
·
2h ago

All Blacks Tweak XV as Springboks Return Kolisi for Cape Town Test

The second Test will show whether New Zealand can extend its series lead or South Africa can fix breakdown and scrum problems to stay in contention.

Image
Referee Nika Amashukeli will no longer be in charge in Cape Town. Picture: Lionel Hahn/Getty Images
Rugby Union - New Zealand tour of South Africa - South Africa v New Zealand - Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg, South Africa - August 22, 2026 South Africa's Jasper Wiese in action with New Zealand's Will Jordan REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko
Image

Overview

  • New Zealand lead the four‑Test series after a 33-16 win over South Africa last weekend and arrive in Cape Town aiming to build on that advantage.
  • The All Blacks made three changes to the starting XV, promoting Leroy Carter to the wing, Simon Parker to No.6 and George Bower to loosehead to cover concussion absences.
  • South Africa named Siya Kolisi to start and reshaped their halfback pairing with Cobus Reinach and Handré Pollard as coaches focus on cleaner ball and finishing.
  • Both teams cited key tactical issues from the first Test with the Springboks pointing to New Zealand’s breakdown pressure and the All Blacks raising concerns about South African scrum tactics with World Rugby.
  • The match carries immediate series stakes because a New Zealand victory would move them 2-0 while a Springboks win is needed to keep their title hopes and world ranking recovery alive and refereeing changes could influence set-piece decisions.