Springboks face Australia with Eben Etzebeth nearing 150 caps

Springboks Eben Etzebeth Rugby Championship Test caps Rassie Erasmus

South Africa's Springboks face Australia in Perth, featuring several significant milestones and tactical shifts. Lock Eben Etzebeth is set to earn his 147th Test cap, moving him within three appearances of becoming the first Springbok to reach 150 caps. He will partner Franco Mostert in the second row.

Head coach Rassie Erasmus has implemented 13 changes to the starting lineup from the previous match against New Zealand. Only Etzebeth and Ethan Hooker retain their starting positions. Notable selections include Marco van Staden at number eight, a decision Erasmus defended by stating the role requires a player capable of scrummaging in that specific position.

Other key developments include Andre Esterhuizen captaining the side, Handre Pollard returning to fly-half following injury recovery, and Jasper Wiese set to earn his 50th Test cap from the bench.

Entities

Eben Etzebeth · Optus Stadium · Rassie Erasmus · Springboks · Wallabies

Sources

Rassie Erasmus reveals the 'one job' of a Springboks' number eight as Marco van Staden tipped for 'massive impact' versus Australia [www.planetrugby.com]

6 days ago

Eben Etzebeth hits another enormous Springbok milestone TODAY [www.ruck.co.uk]

5 days ago