Springboks to test new player mix against Argentina, Kolisi returns from injury
The Springboks are set to face Argentina in a one-off Test in Buenos Aires on Saturday, with coach Rassie Erasmus highlighting the opportunity for a blend of experienced players and rising talent to perform. The team features a significantly revamped lineup, with 13 changes from their last Test against Wales.
Several players are making their return from injury, including captain Siya Kolisi, and locks Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager. Other players back in the squad for the encounter at Estadio José Amalfitani include Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Morne van den Berg, Andre Esterhuizen, and Ethan Hooker.
Erasmus noted that this match is an ideal occasion for these returning players to regain full international form, especially against a challenging opponent like Los Pumas. He emphasised that the Argentineans are a formidable team known for pushing their opponents to the limit.
Squad changes and player returns
Only two players from the starting lineup that secured a 43-0 victory in Durban against SA have retained their positions for this match: Aphelele Fassi and Cobus Reinach. Five other players from that match-23, including Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Ben-Jason Dixon, Marco van Staden, Cobus Wiese (all utility forwards), and Gerhard Steenekamp (prop), have been named on the replacements bench.
Erasmus expressed his anticipation for what the new combination of experienced and talented players can achieve against strong opposition. He mentioned that the squad includes several Rugby World Cup winners alongside promising young players who have been eager for game time.
The coach highlighted the dedication of the players, stating they have adapted well to the time zone and demonstrated grit during training. He believes they will rise to the occasion against a quality Argentinean team, which features players from various competitions and countries, and is well-coached under Felipe Contepomi.
Kolisi’s leadership and impact
The return of Siya Kolisi has reignited discussions about his role, particularly given the depth in the Springboks‘ loose-forward positions. However, Erasmus has consistently expressed confidence in Kolisi, stating he is the player he worries about the least when returning from injury.
Erasmus pointed to Kolisi’s history of overcoming setbacks, including before both the 2019 and 2023 World Cups, where he successfully recovered from long-term injuries. The coach believes Kolisi’s age and experience have taught him how to manage injuries and the associated frustrations, ensuring he always delivers on the field.
Kolisi’s influence extends beyond his on-field performance; he is considered the emotional heartbeat of the squad and a significant leader whose impact is felt throughout the week. While the Springboks have built depth to avoid over-reliance on any single player, Erasmus believes Kolisi’s return strengthens the team’s quest to maintain its position in world rugby.
The coach also indicated that a careful approach would be taken with Etzebeth and De Jager as they return from injury, similar to how Marco van Staden is available to support Kolisi. The Springbok team for the match includes Aphelele Fassi at fullback, Edwill van der Merwe and Canan Moodie on the wings, and Siya Kolisi as captain at flank.
The full lineup for the Springboks is:
- 15 Aphelele Fassi
- 14 Edwill van der Merwe
- 13 Canan Moodie
- 12 Andre Esterhuizen
- 11 Ethan Hooker
- 10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
- 9 Cobus Reinach
- 8 Cameron Hanekom
- 7 Elrigh Louw
- 6 Siya Kolisi (captain)
- 5 Lood de Jager
- 4 Eben Etzebeth
- 3 Thomas du Toit
- 2 Johan Grobbelaar
- 1 Boan Venter
Replacements include Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Gerhard Steenekamp, Zachary Porthen, Ben-Jason Dixon, Cobus Wiese, Marco van Staden, Morne van den Berg, and Handre Pollard.
Erasmus anticipates a tough match, noting that Argentina has previously beaten the Springboks twice in Argentina and will be motivated to prove a point on Saturday.
Source: theherald.co.za
