PERTH — Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has made wholesale changes to his starting XV for South Africa’s one-off Test against Australia in Perth on Sunday.
Erasmus has made 13 changes to the starting team that defeated the All Blacks 43-28 in Baltimore just over a week ago, with only lock Eben Etzebeth and wing Ethan Hooker retaining their places in the run-on side.
The reshuffled team features several notable changes as the Springboks prepare for another demanding Test on Australian soil.
A new-look front row will see Jan-Hendrik Wessels and Zachary Porthen start at prop, with Johan Grobbelaar selected at hooker.
Erasmus has also opted for a new halfback combination, with Herschel Jantjies partnering fly-half Handre Pollard.
One of the key milestones could come from the replacements bench, where number eight Jasper Wiese is in line to earn his 50th Test cap if he takes the field.
Meanwhile, versatile back Andre Esterhuizen has been named captain and will become the 68th player to lead South Africa.
The Springboks have opted for a five-three split between forwards and backs on the replacements bench, giving Erasmus additional options across the pack while retaining attacking depth among the backs.
The extensive changes underline the depth available to the world champions as they continue their international campaign.
With Australia set to host the Springboks in Perth, Erasmus will be hoping the revamped combination can quickly build cohesion and maintain the momentum generated by the impressive victory over New Zealand.
The one-off Test takes place in Perth on Sunday, with both teams set for a major international contest.