The Springboks have unveiled a powerful starting XV for Saturday’s Nations Championship opener against England at Ellis Park, with captain Siya Kolisi leading an experienced side packed with World Cup winners.
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It will be South Africa’s first Test of the 2026 season and their opening match in the inaugural Nations Championship, where they begin with one of the toughest fixtures on the calendar against Steve Borthwick’s England.
Familiar Faces Return
Rassie Erasmus has opted for experience as the Springboks look to make a winning start on home soil.
Double World Cup winners Damian Willemse and Cheslin Kolbe are set to mark a special milestone by earning their 50th Test caps. Willemse lines up at fullback, while Kolbe and Kurt-Lee Arendse provide plenty of attacking firepower on the wings. Jesse Kriel and Damian de Allende continue their proven partnership in midfield, with Manie Libbok orchestrating play from flyhalf alongside the lively Grant Williams at scrumhalf.
Up front, there is no shortage of firepower.
Ox Nché, Malcolm Marx and Thomas du Toit form a formidable front row, while Eben Etzebeth partners Ruan Nortjé in the second row. Captain Siya Kolisi is joined in the back row by Pieter-Steph du Toit and Jasper Wiese, giving the Springboks a blend of physicality, breakdown expertise and ball-carrying ability.
Impact Off The Bench
Erasmus has also selected a strong replacements bench capable of changing the game in the second half.
Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Gerhard Steenekamp and Zach Porthen provide front-row cover, while Marco van Staden and Cameron Hanekom add fresh legs among the forwards.
Cobus Reinach, André Esterhuizen and Canan Moodie complete the matchday 23, giving South Africa experience and attacking quality should the contest remain tight in the closing stages.
A Huge Test Awaits
England arrive in Johannesburg with a youthful but talented squad under Steve Borthwick, featuring several uncapped players alongside experienced internationals. Jamie George will captain the visitors as they begin their Nations Championship campaign against the reigning world champions.
Rassie Erasmus has already spoken of his respect for England, describing them as a fearless side capable of posing serious problems despite bringing a relatively inexperienced group to South Africa.
Playing at Ellis Park presents its own challenge, however.
The altitude, passionate home support and South Africa’s powerful forward pack have made Johannesburg one of the most difficult places in world rugby for touring teams.
Springboks Starting XV
15. Damian Willemse
14. Cheslin Kolbe
13. Jesse Kriel
12. Damian de Allende
11. Kurt-Lee Arendse
10. Manie Libbok
9. Grant Williams
8. Jasper Wiese
7. Pieter-Steph du Toit
6. Siya Kolisi (c)
5. Ruan Nortje
4. Eben Etzebeth
3. Thomas du Toit
2. Malcolm Marx
1. Ox Nche
Replacements: Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Gerhard Steenekamp, Zach Porthen, Marco van Staden, Cameron Hanekom, Cobus Reinach, André Esterhuizen, Canan Moodie.
