We need to fire shots
We need to fire shots



Rassie Erasmus hopes the changes he’s made to his match squad – especially those in the backline – will fire the Springboks to victory over the All Blacks in Wellington on Saturday.

Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu gets the nod at flyhalf ahead of Handre Pollard after a lively performance in the final quarter of the loss at Eden Park. He’ll be partnered by Eden Park try-scorer Cobus Reinach at scrumhalf.

BOK TEAM: Hooker gets first Test start, SFM at 10

A new-look midfield combination of Damian Willemse and Canan Moodie replace Damian de Allende and captain Jesse Kriel, while Ethan Hooker gets his first Test start in only his third Test on the left wing. Cheslin Kolbe is the only backline survivor from last week’s starting backline, with Aphelele Fassi coming back in at fullback.

“I do think the guys who came on in the second half really brought great energy and showed some real fight. It changed my mind to think maybe get some energetic guys onto the field who’ve never played here before.

“I think we’re still number 2 in the world, so we win this game, we’re back in the Rugby Championship mix and we’re still alright in the world rankings. Obviously some players – like some coaches including myself – disappointed, but I don’t think it’s through a lack of trying.”

Up front, Kolisi reclaims the No 6 jersey along with Pieter-Steph du Toit, while No 8 Jasper Wiese will return to the field for the first time since facing Italy earlier this year after serving his four-match suspension.

KEO: Back-to-basics Boks can bounce back

The only change in the pack was at lock, where Lood de Jager will pack down next to Ruan Nortje, while Erasmus stuck with the same front row of props Ox Nche and Thomas du Toit, and hooker Malcolm Marx.

Photo: Ashley Vlotman/Gallo Images



Source link

Leave comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with *.