The Springboks have named their team for Saturday’s second Test against New Zealand at DHL Stadium, with Pieter-Steph du Toit and Ox Nche set to reach significant career milestones.
The Springboks All Blacks Cape Town clash on 29 August follows New Zealand’s 33–16 victory at Ellis Park in Johannesburg. Rassie Erasmus has responded with several changes as South Africa looks to level the four-Test series.
Springboks All Blacks Cape Town team changes
Du Toit will captain South Africa in what is set to be his 100th Test. The 34-year-old will become the 11th Springbok to reach the landmark after making his Test debut against Wales in 2013.
Meanwhile, loosehead prop Ox Nche is set to earn his 50th cap. Eben Etzebeth will extend his record as South Africa’s most-capped player to 144 Tests if he takes the field.
Erasmus has also changed his halfback combination. Handre Pollard starts at flyhalf alongside scrumhalf Cobus Reinach, while Morne van den Berg and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu provide options from the bench.
Ethan Hooker replaces Cheslin Kolbe, who was ruled out after picking up a niggle in Johannesburg. Kurt-Lee Arendse shifts to right wing, with Damian Willemse remaining at fullback.
Kolisi decision could set Bok record
Siya Kolisi remains bracketed with Paul de Villiers at openside flank. Erasmus said the coaching staff will monitor Kolisi during training before making a final decision.
If Kolisi starts, the Springbok XV will have a combined 1,012 Test caps. According to SA Rugby, that would make it the most experienced starting team South Africa has ever fielded.
Erasmus also praised Du Toit and Nche ahead of their milestones, saying: “Pieter-Steph and Ox have been pillars of strength for us on and off the field.”
Springboks looking to respond after Ellis Park loss
South Africa enters the Springboks All Blacks Cape Town Test trailing 1–0 in the series after New Zealand won 33–16 at Ellis Park on 22 August.
The Boks led 13–12 at halftime but struggled to turn periods of pressure into points. New Zealand eventually scored five tries to South Africa’s one and pulled clear during the second half.
Erasmus said mistakes at important moments hurt his side in Johannesburg. As a result, he wants the Springboks to make better use of their opportunities in Cape Town.
There could also be another milestone from the bench. Deon Fourie, 39, could become the oldest player to represent the Springboks in a Test if he takes the field. His previous Bok appearance came in the 2023 Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand.
The Springboks All Blacks Cape Town Test kicks off at 17:10 SAST at DHL Stadium on Saturday, 29 August.