Overview
- On Sunday the Springboks confirmed veteran lock Eben Etzebeth has been recalled to the touring squad while uncapped fly‑half Yaqeen Ahmed returned home with a shoulder niggle.
- The squad moved from Turin to France and will face Les Bleus at the Stade de France on Friday with kick‑off at 22:10 SAST and Rassie Erasmus due to announce his matchday 23 on Monday.
- Salmaan Moerat withdrew before the Italy game with back spasms and his fitness for the France Test remains unclear, which could open a place for rookie lock Riley Norton.
- Former coach Nick Mallett and pundits have urged a forward‑dominated game plan to counter France, who have recalled several experienced players for the fixture.
- Etzebeth’s inclusion gives the Boks added leadership and lineout and scrum options during a compressed schedule when quick recovery and match‑day decisions will shape selection for Paris, Dublin and the Finals Weekend.