Springboks field returning captain Siya Kolisi against Argentina in Buenos Aires

South Africa's Springboks will play a test match against Argentina's Los Pumas in Buenos Aires on Saturday, the opening fixture of the Rugby Championship. Coach Rassie Erasmus has named a side that includes several players back from injury: captain Siya Kolisi, lock Eben Etzebeth, lock Lood de Jager, fly‑half Sacha Feinberg‑Mngomezulu and back‑rower Morne van den Berg, along with Andre Esterhuizen and Ethan Hooker.

Erasmus said the returning players provide a "tough test" to gauge their fitness ahead of the upcoming four‑test series against New Zealand. He also dismissed speculation that the match will be overly physical, noting that Argentina’s recent game against England featured many yellow cards but the Springboks do not expect unsportsmanlike behaviour.

Argentina, coached by Felipe Contepomi, have introduced a number of debutants and younger players, shifting from their traditional physical style toward a faster, more dynamic approach. The side will be without several regulars due to injury, suspension or club commitments. Both teams are expected to field strong, physical line‑ups as they vie for dominance in the championship.