Springbok Squad Shake-Up: Kolisi Back, Venter Makes Debut!
South African rugby fans are buzzing with excitement as Siya Kolisi makes his highly anticipated return to the Springbok squad after recovering from injury. But that's not all! The clash against Georgia in Nelspruit this Saturday will also see Boan Venter earn his first Test cap.
Venter, who joined the squad in June as injury cover for the loosehead prop position, will form a completely uncapped front-row alongside tighthead Neethling Fouche and hooker Marnus van der Merwe. Fouche and van der Merwe both previously featured in the non-cap match against the Barbarians, giving them a slight edge in experience.
Kolisi's return at openside flank is a major boost for the Boks. Cobus Wiese has been named at No 8, stepping in for his brother, Jasper, who received a four-match suspension earlier this week.
The introduction of these three uncapped front-rankers brings the total number of new Springbok players this season to seven, following in the footsteps of Wiese, Vincent Tshituka, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, and Ethan Hooker, all of whom debuted against Italy.
Only five players from last week’s starting lineup retain their spots, with a total of eight remaining from the match 23 that secured a dominant 45-0 victory over Italy in Port Elizabeth.
The inclusion of Kolisi and Venter brings the total number of players used by coach Rassie Erasmus this season to a substantial 46, highlighting the team's depth and adaptability. The match 23 also boasts an impressive 15 World Cup winners, showcasing the experience within the squad.
Edwill van der Merwe, Canan Moodie, Grant Williams, Pieter-Steph du Toit, and Ruan Nortje will all start, while Wiese and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu get promoted from the bench.
The Springbok bench features a five-three split, with props Thomas du Toit and Vincent Koch, along with hooker Bongi Mbonambi, set to provide impact in the front row. RG Snyman and Kwagga Smith add further power to the forward pack, while Faf de Klerk, Handre Pollard, and Damian Willemse offer valuable backline cover.
Key Takeaways:
- Siya Kolisi returns from injury.
- Boan Venter makes his Springbok debut.
- Uncapped front-row combination.
- Several changes to the starting lineup.
- Strong bench with World Cup winners.