Springboks face All Blacks in Cape Town Test following series loss

The Springboks face the All Blacks in the second Test of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series at Cape Town’s DHL Stadium this Saturday. Following a 33-16 defeat in Johannesburg, South Africa seeks to level the four-match series and potentially reclaim the top spot in the world rankings.

South Africa has announced significant squad changes. Captain Siya Kolisi returns to the starting lineup after recovering from a hamstring injury. Wing Cheslin Kolbe has been recalled to the starting XV following his recovery from a knock, replacing Kurt-Lee Arendse. Fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu will start in place of Handré Pollard, who was withdrawn due to a training injury. Manie Libbok will serve as the replacement fly-half.

New Zealand has also made adjustments, including the return of George Bower and Tupou Vaa'i to the starting lineup. All Blacks head coach Dave Rennie has expressed caution, noting that the Springboks are a “wounded beast” following their recent loss. Additionally, New Zealand has consulted World Rugby regarding scrum-related issues experienced during the first Test.

The match is expected to be a sell-out event, with local authorities in Cape Town implementing traffic and transport measures, including MyCiTi shuttles, to manage the large crowds expected at the stadium.