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2d ago

Erasmus Names Springboks XV for Ellis Park Opener, Retains RG Snyman Option

Erasmus’s early selection, featuring Kolisi at eight with Manie Libbok at flyhalf, sets the stage for tactical gamesmanship ahead of Schmidt’s late squad reveal on Thursday night.

Rugby Union - Rugby Championship - South Africa v New Zealand - Ellis Park, Johannesburg, South Africa - August 31, 2024 South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus before the match REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko/File Photo
Rugby Union - Autumn International - England v New Zealand - Allianz Stadium Twickenham, London, Britain - November 2, 2024 New Zealand's Wallace Sititi in action with England's Ollie Lawrence Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs/File Photo
Morgan Hancock/Getty Images
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 17: Zane Nonggorr of the Wallabies in possession during The Rugby Championship match between Australia Wallabies and South Africa Springboks at Optus Stadium on August 17, 2024 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Janelle St Pierre/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Rassie Erasmus announced his starting XV on Monday, shifting Siya Kolisi into the No. 8 jersey and backing Manie Libbok at flyhalf while initially opting for a 5-3 bench split.
  • Erasmus said he could replace a back with RG Snyman on Thursday if Australia choose a 6-2 bench mix, using the late tweak to counter Joe Schmidt’s selection.
  • Australia have flown into Johannesburg with Rob Valetini, Will Skelton and Taniela Tupou declared fit, scrumhalf Nic White postponing retirement and former All Black Aidan Ross poised for a Wallabies debut.
  • Joe Schmidt will name Australia’s matchday 23 around 10 pm AEST on Thursday, a decision expected to finalise Erasmus’s bench plans before the Saturday kickoff.
  • Saturday’s high-altitude Test at Ellis Park will pit South Africa’s home-field planning against Australia’s quest to end a winless run there since 1963 amid an anticipated aerial battle.