All Blacks coach Scott Robertson believes the Springboks will feel the absence of Siya Kolisi as they prepare for their Rugby Championship trip to Australasia, even as New Zealand reshuffle their own pack for Saturday’s Test against Argentina in Buenos Aires.

“It’s obviously a loss. He’s their captain and spiritual leader. He’s a helluva man and player as well,” Robertson said of Kolisi.

“They’ll miss him, but they’ve got a lot of depth.”

MORE: All Blacks repel Pumas’ fightback to go No 1

The Boks’ defeat to the Wallabies in Johannesburg and confirmation of Kolisi’s injury absence has dominated southern hemisphere headlines this week, but Robertson has his own selection puzzles to solve.

Loosehead prop Tamaiti Williams and No 8 Wallace Sititi are set to return from injury to start against Los Pumas, with Ardie Savea shifting to openside flank. Their inclusions come as the All Blacks lose midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown (concussion) and lock Patrick Tuipulotu, who fractured his face in Córdoba and requires surgery that will rule him out for six weeks.

Great to have you back Tamaiti Williams 🖤

Head over to our YouTube channel to watch the full episode of “Behind the Fern” 👉 https://t.co/agoJZFtkhx pic.twitter.com/BHV6MX2ci1

— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) August 19, 2025

“He’s had a tough run,” Robertson said of Tuipulotu.

“When he comes on, he has a great presence and makes great decisions. His lineout calling is invaluable. What a cameo he had at the weekend.”

Robertson’s bench options are less clear, with Josh Lord, Samipeni Finau and Simon Parker all in the frame as second-row or loose-forward cover. Tupou Vaa’i will continue at blindside but can also cover lock.

The backline remains under scrutiny after a disjointed showing in Córdoba. Rieko Ioane, shifted back to wing, and centre Billy Proctor are under pressure to deliver, yet Robertson has opted for patience.

“[Ioane’s] work rate and effort is incredible. He’s a big, tall man and the aerial game is really critical. He’s getting better each week. Billy has got all the skills … sometimes it takes time,” Robertson said.

For South African fans, the All Blacks’ willingness to persist with their midfield combination while rebuilding forward depth offers an early pointer towards the balance Robertson may strike when his side faces the Boks on 6 September at Eden Park.

Photo: Andy Jackson/Getty Images