Overview
- Rassie Erasmus confirmed a largely experienced matchday 23 for Nov. 1, with 21‑year‑old tighthead Zachary Porthen starting on debut, reported as the youngest Bok prop to start in the professional era.
- Cheslin Kolbe shifts to fullback, Kurt‑Lee Arendse returns on the wing, and Sacha Feinberg‑Mngomezulu starts at flyhalf alongside Cobus Reinach.
- André Esterhuizen is named on the bench as hybrid cover for flank and centre, giving South Africa flexibility over a five‑three or six‑two split.
- Erasmus said the Wembley fixture was arranged to give Japan‑based Springboks vital minutes, with nine such players in the 23, and he signalled ongoing rotation with next week’s Paris selection in mind.
- Japan, coached by Eddie Jones, are set to elevate rookie hooker Kenji Sato after injuries at the position and arrive in London following a narrow 19‑15 loss to Australia.