For their showdown against the All Blacks this Saturday at Eden Park, Rassie Erasmus has named a seasoned Springboks lineup built around cohesion and experience. With Siya Kolisi coming in at number 8 and Jesse Kriel stepping up as captain, the team reflects both continuity and strategic readiness, essential as they chase their first win at this iconic venue since 1937, while facing opponents unbeaten there since 1994.
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Fullback Willie le Roux returns from injury to anchor the back three alongside Cheslin Kolbe and Canan Moodie, hinting at a tactical plan focused on aerial dominance. In midfield, Jesse Kriel leads the side from centre, partnered by veteran Damian de Allende, while Handré Pollard calls the shots at fly-half, supported by Grant Williams at scrumhalf.
In the pack, Kolisi’s return is central, flanked by the formidable duo of Pieter‑Steph du Toit and Marco van Staden. The forward pack is bolstered by strength and stability, with Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, Thomas du Toit, and Eben Etzebeth forming a powerful tight five, alongside newcomer Ruan Nortje.
Springbok Team vs New Zealand
15. Willie le Roux (Bulls)
14. Cheslin Kolbe (Tokyo Sungoliath).
13. Jesse Kriel (captain, Canon Eagles)
12. Damian de Allende (Wild Knights)
11. Canan Moodie (Bulls)
10. Handre Pollard (Bulls)
9. Grant Williams (Sharks)
8. Siya Kolisi (Sharks)
7. Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz)
6. Marco van Staden (Bulls)
5. Ruan Nortje (Bulls)
4. Eben Etzebeth (Sharks)
3. Thomas du Toit (Bath)
2. Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears)
1. Ox Nche (Sharks)
Replacements:
16. Jan-Hendrik Wessels (Bulls)
17. Boan Venter (Edinburgh)
18. Wilco Louw (Bulls)
19. Lood de Jager (Wild Knights) – 69 caps, 25 points (5t)
20. Kwagga Smith (Shizuoka Blue Revs)
21. Cobus Reinach (DHL Stormers)
22. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (DHL Stormers)
23. Ethan Hooker (Sharks)
