-
[File Image] New Zealand’s Ardie Savea in action with South Africa’s Siya Kolisi.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has made just four changes to his starting fifteen that beat Australia in Cape Town last month, for Saturday’s Rugby Championship test match against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland.
Three of those changes are in the forwards pack where Siya Kolisi, flank Pieter-Steph du Toit and lock Eben Etzebeth all return.
Kolisi recovered from a niggle and will start in the number eight jumper, but will not captain the team.
Because he was a touch-and-go for the match, centre Jesse Kriel will remain in that role.
Hundred tests veteran, Willie Roux, who was a late withdrawal for the second test against Australia, replaces Aphelele Fsiwill at fullback in the only change among the backs.
The replacement bench is a five-three split with Jan-Hendrik Wessels covering as hooker, and Ethan Hooker as a utility back.
Rassie Erasmus has named a settled side for Saturday’s Test against the All Blacks in Auckland 🤝
Catch all the action live on @SuperSportTV 📺#Springboks #ForeverGreenForeverGold— Springboks (@Springboks) September 4, 2025
