Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has named a strong squad to face Australia in Brisbane for the first match of the Castle Lager Rugby Championship at the Suncorp Stadium on Saturday.
The match will see Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Elrigh Louw make their first Test starts, as the coach retained most of the squad that featured in two-Test series with Ireland last month.
Erasmus is confident that the two will fare well against the Wallabies.
“Sacha has made a notable impact off the bench in all four Tests he has played so far, and he’s slotted into the system with ease, so we are excited to see what dynamic he adds to the team as a starter.
His goal-kicking has also been impressive, and we know that against teams like Australia, New Zealand, and Argentina the margins are very small, so every point will count.
We’re also keen to see what Elrigh brings to the game, given his consistently strong performances for the Vodacom Bulls in the last few seasons and off the bench against Portugal,” said Erasmus.
The coach said he’s confident that the two will receive good guidance alongside Pieter-Steph du Toit and captain Siya Kolisi.
Erasmus has cautioned against a resuscitated Wallabies squad.
“They’re also playing on their home turf where they have a good track record against us in the last few years, so we know it’s going to be a massive challenge.
The fact that they are facing the world champions at home and knowing full well that they are hosting the 2027 World Cup will also inspire them, while we also have no doubt that they are desperate to climb the world rankings.
They are a well-coached team with good playmakers, so they’ll definitely be charged up for Saturday’s match-up,” warned Erasmus.
Springbok team to face Australia in Brisbane:
