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3h ago

Moerat Restored to Springbok Second Row for Turin Test

The selection reflects coach Rassie Erasmus's preference for a physical, experienced pack and signals that uncapped youngsters will be eased into later European matches.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 27: Eben Etzebeth, Zachary Porthen, Johan Grobbelaar, Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Andre Esterhuizen of the Springboks stand for the national anthems during the Rugby Championship match between Australia Wallabies and South Africa Springboks at Optus Stadium on September 27, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Janelle St Pierre/Getty Images)
Salmaan Moerat will make his first appearance for South Africa in over a year
PERTH, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 27: Paul de Villiers of South Africa runs with the ball during the International match between Australia and South Africa at Optus Stadium on September 27, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Antony Dickson/Gallo Images)
GQEBERHA, SOUTH AFRICA - JULY 12: Salmaan Moerat (c) of the Springboks and Sebastian Negri of Italy during the 2025 Castle Lager Incoming Series match between South Africa and Italy at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on July 12, 2025 in Gqeberha, South Africa. (Photo by Anton Geyser/Gallo Images)

Overview

  • Rassie Erasmus named his matchday 23 on Monday and started Salmaan Moerat at No.4 to partner Ruan Nortjé after Eben Etzebeth was ruled out with injury.
  • Moerat returns for his first Springbok appearance of 2026 after recovering from neck and toe injuries and has had limited minutes for La Rochelle since his club move.
  • Erasmus publicly rejected social-media criticism of Moerat, saying the lock contributes unseen physical work in scrums, mauls and ruck-clearance that the team values.
  • South Africa's bench is configured with six forwards and two backs for the Italy game, and none of the six uncapped players in the 37-man touring party made the matchday 23.
  • Erasmus said the uncapped players will train with the group to learn Bok structures and could be given opportunities in the upcoming tests in Paris and Dublin or during Finals Weekend at Twickenham.