Springboks team to face Australia: Rassie Erasmus makes 13 changes for Perth Test
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Perth.
Rassie Erasmus has made 13 changes to the Springboks’ starting team for Sunday’s Test against Australia in Perth.
Eben Etzebeth and Ethan Hooker are the only starters retained from South Africa’s 43–28 win over the All Blacks in Baltimore. André Esterhuizen will captain the Springboks for the first time, while Jasper Wiese is set to earn his 50th cap from the bench.
Handré Pollard returns at fly-half after missing the series against New Zealand through injury. He partners Herschel Jantjies at half-back, with Esterhuizen and Canan Moodie selected in midfield.
Erasmus has named a new front row of Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Johan Grobbelaar and Zachary Porthen. Etzebeth partners Franco Mostert at lock, while Paul de Villiers, Elrigh Louw and Marco van Staden complete the starting pack.
“Each player in this squad has been working hard at training over the last few months,” Erasmus said.
“They are all quality players, so we are pleased to give them a run and we are excited to see this team in action.”
On Esterhuizen’s appointment, Erasmus added:
“He has brought so much to our squad off and on the field, both at centre and in the loose trio, and he thoroughly deserves this opportunity.”
Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian de Allende have been released from camp to rest after a heavy workload.
Australia v South Africa kicks off on Sunday at 10:30am Irish time (11:30am South African time).
