Overview

• Erasmus said Kriel had already been appointed earlier in the week and added the decision to keep him as captain was suggested by Kolisi.
• Jean‑Luc du Preez’s knee injury in training ruled him out and opened the No. 8 slot for Kolisi, with Erasmus indicating the setback could sideline du Preez for a substantial period.
• South Africa restored experience with Willie le Roux, Pieter‑Steph du Toit and Eben Etzebeth starting, and opted for a 5–3 bench featuring Cobus Reinach and Sacha Feinberg‑Mngomezulu.
• New Zealand brought in Emoni Narawa for Sevu Reece to bolster aerial security, start Finlay Christie at scrum‑half amid injuries, and include uncapped Kyle Preston on the bench.
• Eden Park’s long home streak for the All Blacks (unbeaten since 1994) and the Springboks’ search for a first win there since 1937 frame Saturday’s Test, which also marks Ardie Savea’s 100th cap.