Nienaber makes 5 changes for All Blacks Test
The Springboks are reeling from successive losses to the Wallabies in this year's Rugby Championship.
Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber has recalled the experienced trio of Lood de Jager, Elton Jantjies and Frans Steyn for Saturday’s Rugby Championship Test against New Zealand in Townsville.
The Boks are looking to rebound from successive defeats against Australia.
Nienaber has made five changes to the match-day squad for the Test against the All Blacks, with Trevor Nyakane named at loosehead prop for his 50th Test cap.
Two of the changes are in the starting lineup, and more three on the bench, which feature a five-three split this week.
Lock De Jager has recovered from the concussion he suffered against the Wallabies two weekends ago, and reunites with Eben Etzebeth in the second row.
The other change in the starting lineup is at blindside flank where Kwagga Smith is promoted from the bench in a direct switch with Franco Mostert.
Elton Jantjies and Frans Steyn are the new players amongst the replacements, with Steyn set to provide cover at centre and fullback, and Elton Jantjies at flyhalf, while Herschel Jantjies will cover scrumhalf.
With Jasper Wiese’s fate yet to be decided following a delay in his disciplinary hearing for foul play at a ruck, Marco van Staden and Mostert are included on the bench alongside the replacement front row of Steven Kitshoff, Vincent Kock and Malcolm Marx.
Wing Cheslin Kolbe is still recovering from the knock he took to the leg before the first Test against Australia, but Nienaber said he could be available for selection next weekend.
“It’s always a massive task to face the All Blacks,” said Nienaber.
“They have skillful players who thrive on turnover ball and who know how to capitalise on point-scoring opportunities, so we know that we need to a deliver a quality 80-minute performance against them to turn the corner after two disappointing defeats.
“Experience will be vital to ensure that we remain focused and calm throughout the match, and players such as Elton and Frans will bring that when they take the field. They have both played and won against the All Blacks, but they will also bring a set of different skills.”
Nienaber expected an epic encounter against the All Blacks, who have won all four of their Rugby Championship matches up to now with bonus points.
“We are fully aware of the challenge that awaits us, and we know what we have to do to stay on the right side of the scoreboard this weekend – strong defence, accurate execution and capitalising on our point-scoring chances will be key,” said Nienaber.
