Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has named a dramatically changed team for Saturday’s Test against Italy. The match takes place at Turin’s Allianz Stadium with kick-off at 14:40 SA time.
Erasmus made 11 changes to his starting XV following last week’s 32-17 victory over France. Captain Siya Kolisi retains the leadership alongside Boan Venter, Kurt-Lee Arendse and Damian Willemse.
The coaching staff selected a completely new front row featuring Venter, Johan Grobbelaar and Zachary Porthen. Porthen made his Test debut against Japan in London recently.
Jean Kleyn returns for his first match since the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final. He partners Franco Mostert in the second row after an extended absence.
Kolisi leads a fresh loose trio including Ben-Jason Dixon and Marco van Staden. Dixon earns his first Test appearance this season at openside flanker. Van Staden moves to number eight for the encounter.
The backline features significant changes with Morne van den Berg partnering Handre Pollard at halfback. Pollard returns to international duty after missing recent matches.
Arendse and Edwill van der Merwe occupy the wing positions for Saturday’s clash. Ethan Hooker and Canan Moodie form the centre partnership with Willemse at fullback.
RG Snyman could earn his 49th Test cap from the bench. The lock needs one more appearance to join rugby’s exclusive 50-cap club.
Erasmus emphasized his rotation policy throughout the European tour. “We want to give as many players as possible a chance,” he explained. “We believe this team suits Italy’s threats perfectly.”
The coach highlighted returning players’ experience and quality. “Handre and Jean have played in Rugby World Cups,” Erasmus noted. “Ben-Jason and Edwill have performed at the highest level.”
Van Staden will provide hooker cover despite starting at loose forward. “Marco played hooker at the World Cup,” Erasmus confirmed. “He’s been training in that position since.”
Italy defeated Australia last week, boosting their confidence significantly before hosting the Springboks. Erasmus respects their recent improvement and passionate home support in Turin.
SuperSport will broadcast the match live on their Grandstand and Rugby channels.
Full team for the match:
The game kicks off at 14h40 (SA Time) and will be broadcast live on SuperSport’s Grandstand and Rugby channels.
Springbok team to face Italy in Turin:
15 Damian Willemse
14 Edwill van der Merwe
13 Canan Moodie
12 Ethan Hooker
11 Kurt-Lee Arendse
10 Handre Pollard
9 Morne van den Berg
8 Marco van Staden
7 Ben-Jason Dixon
6 Siya Kolisi
5 Franco Mostert
4 Jean Kleyn
3 Zachary Porthen
2 Johan Grobbelaar
1 Boan Venter
Replacements:
16 Gerhard Steenekamp
17 Wilco Louw
18 RG Snyman
19 Ruan Nortje
20 Andre Esterhuizen
21 Kwagga Smith
22 Grant Williams
23 Manie Libbok
