Springboks
Rassie Erasmus has named a strong Springboks team to face Wales despite losing several regulars to club duties. The selection highlights South Africa’s depth, with Cobus Reinach set to earn his 50th cap as the Boks aim to close their tour with authority in Cardiff.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has named a formidable team for South Africa’s final Test of the year against Wales, brushing aside the challenge of losing several frontline players to club commitments and using the opportunity to showcase the depth he has built throughout the season.
Erasmus said the disruptions were expected, yet he expressed confidence that the squad selected carries enough quality and experience to maintain the Springboks’ winning momentum. After nearly five weeks together on tour, he believes the combinations chosen are settled and ready to perform despite the rapid rotation.
The starting pack once again reflects South Africa’s traditional power. Johan Grobbelaar starts at hooker with Wilco Louw and Gerhard Steenekamp anchoring the front row. Jean Kleyn partners Ruan Nortje at lock, while captain Siya Kolisi leads the loose trio alongside Jasper Wiese and Franco Mostert, giving the Boks a balanced and hard-working back row.
In the backline, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu and Morne van den Berg form the half-back pairing tasked with dictating tempo and territory. Damian de Allende and Andre Esterhuizen combine in a muscular midfield, and the back three of Canan Moodie, Ethan Hooker and Damian Willemse brings both pace and composure.
The Test will also mark a major milestone for scrum-half Cobus Reinach, who reaches his 50th cap. Erasmus described the achievement as a testament not only to Reinach’s consistency but also to the squad’s evolution, noting that 49 players have been used this year in preparation for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The bench is loaded with forwards in a seven-one split that signals Erasmus’s intent to dominate physically. He said players outside the regular starting group have earned their places through strong performances and commitment throughout the tour.
While Wales also come into the match without several first-choice players, Erasmus warned that this does not diminish the challenge. He expects a spirited Welsh side eager to test the world champions, especially at home.
