Overview
- Defending champions South Africa named a 37-man squad that includes debutants such as Boan Venter, Vincent Tshituka and Ethan Hooker as part of sharper, more varied attacking systems under coach Tony Brown.
- Australia’s 35-player touring party is weakened by the retirements of skipper David Porecki and injuries to key forwards Allan Alaalatoa and Tom Lynagh, leaving the lineup light on Test experience.
- Will Skelton and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto reinforce the Wallabies’ pack, and Rob Valetini is reportedly in contention to return after injury.
- The opener at Ellis Park offers up to two world ranking points for an away win, a rare chance for Australia to strengthen its sixth-place standing ahead of the 2027 World Cup draw.
- No Wallabies side has won at Ellis Park since 1963, underscoring the formidable challenge they face in Saturday’s Rugby Championship opener.