Particle.news

Springboks to Field Returning Veterans in Buenos Aires Test

Coaches say they will control game time to rebuild match fitness and judge readiness ahead of the All Blacks series.

Overview

  • Coaching staff confirmed on Monday that senior players including Siya Kolisi, Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Morné van den Berg are expected to play in the one-off Test in Buenos Aires.
  • Assistant coach Deon Davids said the priority is to rebuild match fitness by giving the veterans controlled minutes and tailoring intensity so no individual is overworked.
  • The Buenos Aires Test is being treated as a serious selection and fitness exam that will feed into preparations for the four-Test All Blacks series that begins on August 22.
  • Argentina named a squad with many uncapped players because of European club absences, but Springbok coaches warned Buenos Aires is a physical venue and expect a tough contest.
  • The touring plan uses split squads and follow-up provincial matches to finalise combinations and protect returning players while decisions are made for the All Blacks series and the next World Cup cycle.