South Africa`s head coach has opted against widespread squad rotation ahead of the decisive Rugby Championship fixture.
Ox Nche will start for the Springboks against Argentina this Saturday at Twickenham Stadium in London, marking the final match of the Rugby Championship.
The 30-year-old Nche is the sole alteration to the starting lineup from the previous round. He returns after sitting out the last match in Durban, where the Springboks secured a dominant 67-30 victory over Argentina. Boan Venter, who covered for Nche previously, is not included in the squad, with Jan-Hendrik Wessels taking a prop spot on the bench.
South Africa currently leads the Rugby Championship standings by a single point. A bonus-point victory will secure their second consecutive tournament win. However, even a defeat might see the reigning world champions retain the title, depending on the outcome of the match between Australia and New Zealand.
Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus emphasized that squad changes are minimal, with the team`s core remaining consistent from last week. He believes that the blend of experience from returning players and the energy of young talent will be crucial in this decisive title clash.
Springboks Squad Announcement
Starting XV:
- 1. Ox Nche
- 2. Malcolm Marx
- 3. Thomas du Toit
- 4. Eben Etzebeth
- 5. Ruan Nortje
- 6. Siya Kolisi (c)
- 7. Pieter-Steph du Toit
- 8. Jasper Wiese
- 9. Cobus Reinach
- 10. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu
- 11. Ethan Hooker
- 12. Damian de Allende
- 13. Canan Moodie
- 14. Cheslin Kolbe
- 15. Damian Willemse
Replacements:
- 16. Bongi Mbonambi
- 17. Jan-Hendrik Wessels
- 18. Wilco Louw
- 19. RG Snyman
- 20. Kwagga Smith
- 21. Grant Williams
- 22. Manie Libbok
- 23. Jesse Kriel
Match Details:
The final-round Rugby Championship match between Argentina and South Africa is scheduled for October 4th at Twickenham Stadium in London. Kick-off is set for 16:00 Moscow time (17:00 Tbilisi time).
